Arsenal's attempts to rejuvenate their midfield have been dealt a blow. Piero Hincapie's loan deal being turned into a permanent move has been the Gunners' only business this summer so far where incomings are concerned.
Bouaddi Price Tag Soars Above £100m
Mikel Arteta's reported interest in Morocco star Ayyoub Bouaddi has been well documented. The 18-year-old Lille midfielder shone for his nation in the 2026 World Cup, reaching the quarter-finals where they faced France. The teenager has also attracted interest from Manchester United and Liverpool, but Lille president Olivier Letang warned that any bid would need to exceed £100 million.
Letang told Eurosport: "Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now. He's already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has significant room for improvement. He's only 18 and has his whole future ahead of him." Citing recent sales, he added: "How much have players like Elliot Anderson or Sandro Tonali been sold for, who are much older, but without room for improvement, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub." Previous reports had valued Bouaddi at £60m, but the president's comments suggest a significant increase.
Guimaraes Ruled Out by Newcastle
Another midfield target, Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes, has been deemed 'priceless' by the Magpies. Arsenal made a verbal offer for the Brazilian, which was swiftly rejected. Eddie Howe's side, having already sold Anthony Gordon and Tonali, are determined to keep Guimaraes and are planning to offer him a new contract. The 28-year-old had been on Arsenal's radar since 2020, before he joined Newcastle from Lyon in 2022.
The Gunners have been told that Guimaraes is not for sale, closing the door on a potential third major departure from St James' Park this summer.
