Arsenal are yet to enter “direct talks” with Juventus over a potential deal for Weston McKennie in a boost to Leeds United’s hopes of landing the midfielder.
The Gunners are hoping to sign a new midfielder before the transfer deadline after Mikel Arteta was forced to admit he needs reinforcements after Mohamed Elneny was injured earlier this week.
McKennie has been one named mooted in the media but it now seems like Leeds are currently winning that race, although CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs warns the Yorkshire club to expect a possible “hijack”.
When asked if Arsenal have a strong interest in McKennie or if Leeds have a free hit, Jacobs said on Twitter: “For now no direct Arsenal talks with Juventus. But Leeds need to be quick because there’s always a danger of a hijack, especially at this stage of the window with clubs constantly watching how the market moves.”
Pushed if he thinks a deal will get done for McKennie for €30m plus, Jacobs replied: “I do. Leeds have player buy in and talks continue over the package. But the clubs are not too far apart now.”
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano brought his own update on Friday after Leeds agreed personal terms with the player.
Romano tweeted: “Leeds United are pushing to get Weston McKennie deal done as soon as possible. Talks continue with Juventus after positive contacts on Thursday. McKennie has agreed personal terms with Leeds days ago but it’s not done deal between clubs yet.”
Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo has emerged as a target for a number of top Premier League sides but Arsenal are unlikely to make an offer in this window.
On the likelihood of the Gunners being interested in Caicedo, Jacobs added: “They like the player, but if they bid at £75m it would be very un-Arsenal like. They stayed disciplined with Mudryk. To get Caicedo they’d have to do the opposite if it’s this window.
With Arsenal top of the Premier League, a number of their players have caught the attention of clubs around Europe with Jacobs claiming Paris Saint-Germain are keen on William Saliba.
On whether PSG are working on signing any players before the deadline, Jacobs continued: “I honestly don’t think another big money signing (like a Messi, Mbappe or Neymar) is the priority.
“They want to buy young (and where possible French). Saliba on radar but #AFC expect him to sign a new deal. Rashford a target still but new #MUFC deal more likely.”
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