The £108k-a-week star turned down Galatasaray because he wants to join Arsenal

Arsenal’s summer transfer plans continue to make headlines following their Premier League title campaign, with Mikel Arteta and the club’s recruitment team scouting a number of attacking additions ahead of next season.

The Gunners’ shortlist includes the likes of Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers, Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi and Atlético Madrid striker Julian Alvarez.

The latter is a strong target for Barcelona, ​​who recently lodged a bid for the £100m-plus striker, with Rogers understood to be keen on a move to north London.

The BBC also reported that Arsenal are looking to strengthen in attack, midfield and at the back as they look to strengthen the team that lifted the Premier League trophy but failed in the Champions League final.

Alvarez remains one of the biggest names linked with the club in recent weeks, and Arsenal have also been credited with interest in young talent as they continue to balance rapid development with long-term planning.

Another high-profile striker is also a real choice for the sport Andrea Berta.

Rafael Leao rejects Galatasaray as he eyes Arsenal move

According to a report relayed by Sport Witness from La Gazzetta dello Sport, AC Milan midfielder Rafael Leao is hoping Arsenal will make a move for him this summer and is currently not interested in a move to Galatasaray.

The report claims the Portugal international would prefer to keep his options open rather than commit to the Turkish champions while interest from Arsenal and elsewhere is still possible, despite Galatasaray’s willingness to increase his £108,000-per-week wages.

Leao’s situation has become one of the most intriguing stories of the transfer window.

The 27-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Milan in recent months, with several clubs across Europe monitoring the development.

Reports in Italy and elsewhere have revealed that Leao is open to a new challenge after spending several years at San Siro, where he has proven to be one of Serie A’s most dangerous players.

The latest update suggests that Arsenal are among the clubs able to influence his decision.

According to the report, Leao is waiting to find out if the Gunners decide to do a deal before considering other possibilities.

Galatasaray are said to have shown great interest and are already in contact with the player’s camp, but the Portuguese striker is reportedly prioritizing other opportunities.

Similar reports from Italy in recent weeks have indicated that Galatasaray’s interest is genuine.

From Arsenal’s point of view, the attraction could be for several reasons.

Leao can operate across the front line but is most effective from the left wing, where his pace, playmaking ability and goal threat have made him one of the most recognizable strikers in Europe, even if he hasn’t been at his best of late.

Adding a player of that profile would give Arteta another elite option alongside an already impressive attacking team.

Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have also been considered for the exit door by some reports, for Leao to replace them.

Whether Arsenal are willing to take their interest further is unclear, with Milan wanting around £43m.

For now, the situation remains to be seen.