Arsenal continue to get closer to Man City as each season passes, and their backs-against-the-wall performance at the Etihad shows just how far they’ve come under Mikel Arteta.
Although they ultimately returned to London with just a point, thanks to John Stones’ equaliser at the death, there was much to admire from the Gunners in that performance.
That they still couldn’t get over the line does hint at the need for another player or two in order for Arsenal to finally land a longed-for Premier League title.
Arsenal-linked ace in “very positive” talks
One player that they’ve apparently had their eye on for a while now is Bayern Munich’s brilliant Jamal Musiala.
Apparent contract issues with the Bavarians has seen some of the greats of European football circling for a player who is demanding £300,000 per week as part of new contract talks (per Abendzeitung, subscription required).
It’s believed that Man City, Man United and Real Madrid are all ready to rival the Gunners for Musiala’s signature, however, a major breakthrough in talks is likely to see every club bar Bayern disappointed.
That’s because, as Abendzeitung advance, “very positive” talks have taken place with the Bavarian giants.
Indeed, Bayern’s sporting director, Max Eberl, told Sport1; “It’s difficult (a new deal for Musiala), but not impossible – as Jamal knows what he has at Bayern Munich.
“He grew up here and has brought himself to this level. Talks are intensifying. We are extremely ambitious and he knows that he wants to win titles.”
A deal for any other club including Arsenal is likely to prove problematic given the player’s current market value of €130m (transfermarkt), plus his salary demands.
His current deal doesn’t finish until 2026, so Bayern have plenty of time to get Musiala to put pen to paper.
Top photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images