Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners make Jakub Kiwior decision; club plan Emile Smith Rowe exit, and more - July 15, 2024

Arsenal are hoping to be third-time lucky next season in their pursuit of the elusive Premier League title. Mikel Arteta's team finished behind champions Manchester City twice in a row in the last two seasons.

Meanwhile, the Gunners are ready to listen to offers for defender Jakub Kiwior this summer. Elsewhere, the north London club are working to offload midfielder Emile Smith Rowe.

On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on July 15, 2024:

---

Arsenal make Jakub Kiwior decision

Jakub Kiwior

Arsenal are ready to cash in on Jakub Kiwior this summer, according to Football Insider. The Polish defender has been in and out of Arteta's team recently.

Last season, Kiwior registered 30 appearances across competitions, covering at left-back as well. However, he has been deemed surplus to requirements amid the impending arrival of Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.

Arteta is looking to add more quality to his squad after faltering in the Premier League title race last season. The Italian defender is adept at operating at left-back as well as centre-back and could be an upgrade on Kiwior.

The Pole, understandably, could be allowed to leave but won't be short of options. Kiwior was a target for AC Milan, who could return for his signature this summer. The north London side would prefer a permanent exit but are apparently open to a loan move as well.

---

Gunners plan Emile Smith Rowe exit

Emile Smith Rowe

Arsenal have initiated talks to offload Emile Smith Rowe this summer, according to Football Insider. The English midfielder is a forgotten man at the Emirates, registering just 19 appearances across competitions, mostly from the bench.

Arteta is looking to streamline his squad ahead of the new campaign and is willing to offload some of his fringe players. Smith Rowe was once highly rated by the manager, but injuries and loss of form has impeded his development.

Arteta has apparently lost his patience with the 23-year-old and is ready to see the last of him this year. The Spaniard is eyeing multiple additions to his squad this summer and could use player sales to raise funds.

Smith Rowe wants to stay but will be aware that he has to leave if he wishes to secure regular football. Fulham are keeping a close watch on his situation and are reportedly working on their opening bid. Crystal Palace also have their eyes on the player.

---

Arsenal yet to agree Riccardo Calafiori deal, says Fabrizio Romano

Riccardo Calafiori

Arsenal are yet to agree a deal with Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. Recent reports have suggested that the club have agreed personal terms with the Italian defender.

Arteta is looking to shore up in options at the back and wants a left-footed defender to cover for and compete with Gabriel. Calafiori has popped up on his radar, and the 22-year-old's versatility has seemingly convinced the manager.

The Italian was outstanding for Bologna last season, registering 37 appearances across competitions. The Gunners are reportedly engaged in talks with Bologna to bring the player to the Emirates this summer.

In his column for Caught Offside, Romano was full of praise for Calafiori.

“Riccardo Calafiori – The Bologna defender is still waiting for Arsenal as the clubs try to reach an agreement on the transfer fee.

"If it goes through it should be a superb signing for Arsenal as Calafiori is an excellent defender – he can play centre-back or left-back, has an excellent left foot, can provide assists and score goals, as he did for Bologna last season," wrote Romano.

He continued:

“Quality is the best word to describe him. He’s a centre-back but has quality to help the squad in the build up like midfielders.”

Chelsea also have their eyes on the 22-year-old but are lagging behind their London rivals in the race for Calafiori.