Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Cazorla, Van Persie, Sahin and Wanyama Involved In Latest Speculation
Arsenal are poised to complete their third major transfer of the summer, with the signing of Santi Cazorla form Malaga thought to be imminent. The Spain international has been in London to undergo a medial ahead of the finalization of a £16 million deal, according to the Guardian.
Taking advantage of Malaga's uncertain financial state, the Gunners appear to have landed a quality addition to their midfield for what represents something of a bargain in today's market. The 27-year-old only arrived a year ago at Malaga for £15 million and helped the side achieve a fourth-place finish in La Liga.
Capable of playing out wide or in the middle, Cazorla could add offer vital creativity often missing from the side last season.
Often lamented by fans and impartial critics alike for their lack of expenditure in the transfer market, the move would take Arsenal's summer spending to around the £40 million mark.
While few people have access to the mind of Robin van Persie, it is hard not to think that this latest signing may reduce the forward's desire to leave the club. Manchester United, Juventus and Manchester City have all made bids for the Dutchman, but all three have so far fallen some way short of Arsenal's asking price.
With time running out until the start of the season and subsequently the closing of the transfer window at the end of the month, the chances only increase that Van Persie will remain at the Emirates for at least the final year of his contract.
That notion is supported by the Daily Mirror's assertion that Juventus have set a deadline of August 7 for Van Persie to complete a move to Turin. Despite reportedly being willing to offer Van Persie a massive salary, they have so far yet to reach terms with Arsenal. With Juventus also said to be interested in other options such as Stevan Jovetic, it is only understandable that the club will eventually turn their attentions elsewhere if no deal can be struck.
As the new season approaches, Van Persie's situation only grows more complicated. Having missed Arsenal's tour of Asia, the soon-to-be 29-year-old is set to depart for a pre-season training camp in Germany next week and turn out in the friendly with Cologne on August 12.
While an agreement for Cazorla looks all but done, his signing could soon be followed with a season-long loan deal for Nuri Sahin. Despite some reluctance to leave the Bernabeu, the Real Madrid midfielder is in talks over a move, according to the Guardian.
The 19-year-old was a star of Borussia Dortmund's Bundesliga triumph in 2010-2011 but failed to cement a place in Jose Mourinho's first-team plans after a move to Real last summer.
Reports in recent days have also suggested that Barcelona could be poised to make a bid for Arsenal midfielder Alex Song. While such a move appears unlikely, the Gunners are reportedly already making provisions for the Cameroonian's departure. Arsenal, along with Manchester United, are keeping a keen eye on Celtic's Victor Wanyama, according to the Daily Mail. The 21-year-old is said to be available for £7 million.
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