One Arsenal transfer target has now made a decision about his future, but Mikel Arteta is aware that a deal will have to wait.
A number of Arsenal transfer targets are currently impressing on the world stage at Euro 2024.
Nico Williams has caught the eye at the tournament for Spain, as has Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko.
It is very possible for players to drive up their transfer value with impressive showings at international tournaments, which the Gunners will be wary of.
However, such competitions also give clubs the chance to watch players they may be eyeing up perform under the most intense pressure and scrutiny.
Mikel Arteta may well have been keeping a close eye on Xavi Simons, who has shown promise for the Netherlands at Euro 2024.
Fabrizio Romano reveals plan for Xavi Simons future amid Arsenal interest
Arsenal have been credited with an interest in the £52 million Dutch playmaker.
According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, reporting on X, Simons has now made a decision about his future. The 21-year-old has: “Formally informed Paris Saint-Germain about his plan to leave the club this summer.”
However, Arsenal fans ought not to expect an immediate announcement of his next destination straightaway, as a decision on that will not be made until after the Euros.
What’s more, Simons will only depart PSG on a temporary basis, and is seeking a one-year loan move.
Arsenal are known to already be willing to sign Simons on loan, which could give them the edge over Premier League rivals Manchester United in the race for his signature. The Red Devils are also keen on securing the player’s services, but are hoping to do so on a permanent basis.
Mikel Arteta and Edu must start work on Simons deal immediately
Whilst a final decision on Simons’ future will not be made right now, sporting director Edu and the Arsenal recruitment staff need to already be working on a proposal for the player.
Simons is sure to generate a great deal of interest, so it is vital that the Gunners are prepared to compete on that front.
The Emirates Stadium ought to represent an attractive destination for the 15-cap international. After all, Arteta has built a young, exciting team capable of competing for major honours.
There is also a clear path to regular game time for Simons in North London, as he can operate on either flank as well as in a central role, meaning he would provide cover for the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, and could also be deployed in the left-eight midfield berth.
However, it is worth nothing that he is not yet the finished article as a player. Arsenal legend Martin Keown is concerned that Simons lacks end product.