Arsenal signs Spanish striker, club accepts transfer fee

Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo reports that Arsenal are already in talks with Celta Vigo striker Nolito. Mundo Deportivo is a comparatively reliable source when it comes to La Liga related transfer news, and it reports that Nolito has been scouted by the Gunners extensively in the recent weeks. According to the report, the transfer negotiations between the player and both clubs are already in advanced stages.

The 29-year-old, who has scored eight goals in 14 appearances this season, is also a target of Barcelona, but the La Liga champions are facing financial troubles at the moment and can’t afford the £15million price tag of the player. This has paved the way for the player’s move to Emirates Stadium, a move that would see his wages increase by almost 250%. The Gunners have already placed an offer of £14million on the table, which should be enough to get the striker to Premier League.

In another Arsenal related transfer news, Liverpool have joined the Gunners in the chase of Inter Milan striker Mauro Icardi. Spanish news outlet Fichajes reports that the Gunners are set to place a £32m deal for the Argentine ace in the upcoming transfer window, but they will face stiff competition from the Reds.

The report claims that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp could prove to be the difference for the Reds in luring the striker to Anfield. Icardi was given the captaincy of the team at the start of the season but has failed to find consistency in his form this season. He has scored only four goals in 12 appearances this season.

He was recently dropped by Inter manager Roberto Mancini for the 1-0 win over Genoa and former Man City manager explained his decision to Sky Sport Italia: “I am the coach of Inter, not of Icardi and Jovetic. We have many excellent forwards, and they all deserve playing time.”