Arsenal are reportedly planning a shock double deal from an unexpected Premier League club.
After finishing as runners-up to Manchester City for two consecutive seasons, Mikel Arteta is optimistic that the 2024/25 campaign will bring success.
Arsenal currently has 17 points from seven matches, placing them third, just one point behind leaders Liverpool and trailing City only on goal difference.
Despite the season being in its early stages, Arsenal is already preparing for next summer’s transfer window to ensure the squad remains competitive.
According to Caught Offside, they are interested in Bournemouth players Antoine Semenyo and Milos Kerkez, who are valued at approximately €80 million.
Semenyo is seen as a potential backup for Bukayo Saka, while Kerkez could serve as a replacement for Oleksandr Zinchenko or Kieran Tierney.
However, it’s reported that Arsenal aims to negotiate a deal below Bournemouth’s €80 million asking price if they decide to pursue these players.
Since joining Bournemouth in January 2023, Semenyo has made a strong impression. This season, the 24-year-old has scored three goals and provided one assist in seven Premier League matches.
In addition to Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur has also shown interest in Semenyo.
Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola commented on Semenyo’s performance last month, saying, “I’m pleased with his contributions, but even more so with his attitude. In the recent match against Everton, he was the first to embrace the challenge of the situation.”
He added, “He has taken on more responsibility for the team. Even before scoring his first goal, you could see a bit of anger in him, which can be beneficial. I think he’s starting to win more and embrace that role.
“Last season, he often came off the bench or played 60 to 65 minutes, and you could tell he was fading, which is normal. Now he’s able to finish games strongly.
“However, he still has a lot to improve on, and I remind him of that every day. He’s not the complete package yet.”
