Arsenal Rumors: Bundesliga Striker's 'Hat-Trick' Prompts Arteta To Launch Transfer Swoop – Report

Mikel Arteta could be plotting a transfer raid for one of Bundesliga’s most promising strikers, according to a report.

Despite having bolstered its midfield last summer, Arsenal still failed to bring home a trophy this past season. Ahead of the next transfer window, the Gunners are once again linked to a couple of potential signings.

Among Arsenal’s early targets is Bundesliga striker Josip Brekalo. The 22-year-old is playing some of the best football of his career at Wolfsburg, having netted 16 goals since 2017. However, it was his first hat-trick during a recent victory over Union Berlin that prompted Arteta to try and bring him to the Emirates Stadium, Corriere dello Sport reported.

Should an offer be made, Wolfsburg is expected to demand £13 million ($18 million) for Brekalo, a figure not too overwhelming for Arsenal considering the player’s recent performances.

Aside from Arsenal, English Premier League clubs Everton and Leeds United are also said to be eyeing Brekalo, as per German outlet Bild.

Brekalo’s value is unlikely to rise this summer unless the aforementioned Premier League giants enter a bidding war for the forward’s signature.

While it has become apparent that Arsenal is eager to revamp the squad this offseason, the club would still have to deal with the futures of several players being linked to a departure.

Interest in signing Arsenal midfielder Granit Xhaka is said to have been mounting in recent times with Roma becoming a “serious” suitor of the Swiss, according to Goal.

Despite having been a key player under Arteta, talks over a fresh deal have yet to take place between Xhaka and Arsenal.

Hector Bellerin, on the other hand, has captured the attention of La Liga side Real Betis. Bellerin could leave the Emirates Stadium for free this summer, and it has been said that the player is keen on exploring his options.

Arguably the biggest name to possibly part ways with Arsenal is two-time Premier League champion Willian. Earlier reports have directed Willian to a return to his former club Chelsea. However, the Goal report noted that the said move is not likely to happen anytime soon.

Arsenal has made the Brazilian winger “available,” and he could also leave this summer after “both parties” agreed to pause on a contract extension, according to the outlet. However, the report added that no deal is expected to be closed as not a single offer has been made yet from any club.