TODAY TOP TRANSFER NEWS: Jobe Bellingham makes shock Arsenal transfer decision as Mikel Arteta fights for £47m star

Our opinion on the latest Arsenal news and transfer gossip ahead of the Gunners’ clash against Manchester United

Jobe Bellingham during Sunderland’s clash against Stoke City (Image: Photo by Malcolm

Mikel Arteta will be desperate to return to winning ways when Arsenal lock horns with Manchester United. The Gunners will host the Red Devils at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday, with a place in the FA Cup fourth round up for grabs.

Arsenal head into the heavyweight tie following a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final on Tuesday. Despite creating numerous opportunities to get back into the clash, the Magpies ended the north Londoners’ 13-game unbeaten streak across all competitions.

Bellingham makes shock decision

According to The Sun, Jobe Bellingham looks set to stay at Sunderland despite interest from Arsenal, Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Borussia Dortmund. The report states that the 19-year-old midfielder, who has impressed in the Championship this season, could cost up to £20m.

It’s said that the Black Cats are determined to hold onto Bellingham as they look to secure promotion to the Premier League. The Sun add that the teenager, who sees his contract expire in June 2028, would prefer to leave his homeland and join a top European club – just like his brother, Jude, did in 2020.

football.london says: “If I was Jobe, I’d stay at Sunderland until the end of the season. He’s in no rush to make such a big decision over his future. On one hand, I wouldn’t blame him if he wants to go overseas – especially after the rich success that his brother enjoyed in doing so. But on the other hand, I’m surprised that he snubbed Arsenal.”

Barcelona demand ‘irresistible’ Araujo offer

According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona would be reluctant to accept a loan deal for Ronald Araujo this month, but they won’t rule out a permanent transfer should they receive a ‘very considerable and irresistible’ offer. The report states that the Arsenal target will prioritise a move to the Premier League.

It’s said Juventus are also interested in Araujo, but the Old Lady would prefer to take the defender on a temporary basis – which is unlikely to suit the Catalan outfit. Mundo Deportivo adds that the Uruguayan has always been ‘curious’ about testing himself in the English top flight.

football.london says: “While Ronald Araujo would be a class signing for Arsenal, he’s not what the Gunners need this month. Mikel Arteta needs a top striker who can help him win the Premier League or Champions League. Alexander Isak. Viktor Gyokeres. Not a centre-back.”

Arsenal rival Man City for £70m midfielder

According to GiveMeSport, Arsenal and Manchester City will lock horns for the signing of Hugo Larsson. The report states that Eintracht Frankfurt could demand £70m for the 20-year-old midfielder’s signature following his impressive performances for the Bundesliga outfit.