'Can't see it happening' - Frenkie de Jong to Arsenal transfer explored

Latest Arsenal news includes a look at one of the main talking points to come from our live Q&A with a deal for Frenkie de Jong explored ahead of transfer deadline day

Transfer deadline day is fast approaching and whilst outgoings are the priority for Arsenal, the prospect of a fifth summer signing has not been completely ruled out.

This prompted Mikel Arteta, on the eve of the new Premier League season, to indicate Arsenal were unlikely to dip back into the market in terms of further additions: "At the moment we’re not planning to do anything," he told reporters. "But the window is very unpredictable though. Things can happen, probably things that we don’t wish, so at the moment we are happy with what we’ve got."

However, less than a week later, this stance softened with the Gunners manager seemingly open to the idea of bringing in a replacement for Timber who looks set to miss the rest of the season after sustaining an ACL injury against Nottingham Forest on August 12.

"These things happen unfortunately and we have to move on. I'm more thinking about the resources in the team to keep doing what we want to do. But it's true he was giving us a lot on both sides. But again, it’s things that happen and we have to be prepared for that."

Unfortunately for the aforementioned user, football.london's chief Arsenal writer Kaya Kaynak has explained why this move is highly unlikely to materialise: "I think Frenkie De Jong would be a fantastic addition too," he said. "Sadly though I can't see it happening this window.

"With Thomas Partey, Mohamed Elneny, Jorginho and Declan Rice all available in that six or eight position I'd say there's too much competition right now. Don't forget that there's still Charlie Patino to come back from loan next season. He's made a really good start at Swansea and is one to keep an eye on this season."

Ahead of deadline day, football.london understands Arsenal are open to offers for Rob Holding, Cedric Soares, Nuno Tavares, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nicolas Pepe.