Andrea Berta secures huge advantage for next Arsenal transfer after Viktor Gyokeres breakthrough

Arsenal are on the verge of signing Viktor Gyokeres with it possible attention then switches onto another attacking transfer. The Gunners confirmed Noni Madueke as their fourth summer signing on Friday with funds spent now up to £120million following the arrivals of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.

Despite the deal for Madueke totalling £52million, and an agreement struck at £63.7million (€73.5m) for Gyokeres, another signing in the frontline is possible. The immediate focus is certainly on the Swede though, with journalist Ben Jacobs claiming that a full agreement is close and a breakthrough in talks is the hope for this weekend.

Following that deal, attention may shift onto Real Madrid's Rodrygo or Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace, with both strongly linked over the last few weeks, though either arriving now likely depends on exits.

Arsenal accepting that scenario may have become more clear with a new target identified. According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal are attentive to Xavi Simons' situation at RB Leipzig.

He also stated that the Dutchman is expected to depart and with that in mind, numerous clubs are informed including Chelsea and other Premier League teams, but there has been no talks or bids just yet. Barcelona are also seemingly not in the race despite links.

If the Gunners do formalise a move for Simons, it is very likely he costs a similar amount to Gyokeres and therefore a first-team exit will have to be sanctioned. Given the opportunity, it certainly seems as though more clubs will enter the race, but Arsenal seemingly have an advantage.

Simons' agent, Ali Barat, also represents Madueke and The Athletic has claimed that he orchestrated the England international's move from Chelsea to Arsenal. He has a good relationship with Gunners' sporting director Andrea Berta which made him the perfect middle man for negotiations.

If that is the case, potential discussions for Simons could be easier given Barat is involved. However, Arsenal have already dealt with RB Leizpig this summer for Benjamin Sesko and it was far from straightforward.

That could see the German club favour selling him to other European teams but Arsenal's latest signing may be able to influence Simons. Before Madueke and the latter sealed their latest moves, they were part of a fearsome attack at Dutch giants PSV alongside Liverpool star Cody Gakpo.

Just a few weeks ago, Chelsea could have used Madueke as their secret weapon for Simons but it is now Arsenal that seemingly have that luxury.

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