Arsenal are preparing for another important transfer window as Mikel Arteta tries to bolster his squad ahead of the new season.
The Gunners missed out on Champions League football after they finished fifth in the Premier League, two points behind Tottenham Hotspur. However, Arsenal will still compete in Europe and are expected to strengthen their ranks as they try and improve on last season.
A new striker is imperative for the Gunners with Alexandre Lacazette out of contract, while Eddie Nketiah is expected to sign a new five-year contract. This would leave the 22-year-old as their only senior forward in the squad following Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang's departure in January.
So, with that in mind, here are the latest Arsenal transfer rumours and updates.
Bellerin set to stay in Spain
Hector Bellerin is set to stay at Real Betis beyond his current loan deal this summer.
The Arsenal loanee has impressed in Spain, making 23 La Liga appearances and his form has saw Betis want to keep him and sign him on a permanent deal. Estadio Deportivo believe if the decision was up to Bellerin, he would like to join and has already made his mind up about his long-term future.
They highlight the end of Bellerin's parting statement, where he writes "I hope to see you again soon", highlighting he hopes to stay at the club. The report also suggest his tattoo which he got sitting on the Betis pitch after his loan had ended. Then there are the comments Bellerin made to RTV Betis this week, as he discussed his future and a potential permanent move to Real Betis.
"At the moment, I have to go back (to Arsenal),” Bellerin said. "I have already spoken with the two clubs and I have made my position clear. Now we have a few months where we hope that the best will come out for the three parties. I made an effort to come (to Betis) and I am willing to make another effort to stay because I am happy."
Gabriel on Jesus jokes
Gabriel Magalhaes has revealed he "jokes around" with Gabriel Jesus in the Brazil dressing room about his transfer links with Arsenal.
The Manchester City striker has been linked with a move to the Emirates after Erling Haaland arrived at the Etihad from Borussia Dortmund. The Gunners have been in contact with Pep Guardiola's side over a potential deal for the Brazilian with City slapping a £55million price tag on the striker, according to ESPN.
And the centre-half spoke about Arsenal's chase for Jesus revealing he has joked about the rumours with his compatriot.
"We joke around in the dressing room, but there’s nothing certain," Gabriel told a press conference this week. "Of course, he’s a quality player and if he goes to Arsenal, he would help us a lot."
Beckham praises Arsenal target
David Beckham has outlined the qualities of Nottingham Forest winger Brennan Johnson amid transfer interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal.
The former England midfielder posted on his Instagram story "what a season" and "what a player" as Johnson helped Forest to promotion back to the Premier League after beating Huddersfield Town 1-0 at Wembley. According to the Daily Mail, Arsenal are the frontrunners to sign Johnson, while Leeds United, Tottenham and Leicester City are amongst those interested.
"What a season, what a player," said Beckham. "Congratulations and welcome to the Premier League."
He added: "Congratulations mate. What a moment and what a season."
