03 May 2024 , 03:00
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Arsenal take on Bournemouth this weekend with the objective of taking one step closer to the Premier League title.
The Gunners currently occupy top spot with a point advantage over Manchester City - albeit having played a game more. Should results go there way, Mikel Arteta’s men could find themselves well clear with just two games of the season remaining.
Before that, the Arsenal boss has been putting his squad through its paces on the training pitch. Bournemouth will present a significant challenge having had an impressive first season under Andoni Iraola.
The Gunners won 4-0 in the reverse game but it is not expected to be as straightforward this time around. Take a look at all of the news coming out of the Emirates Stadium over the past 24 hours:
Southgate told to drop Saka
While Bukayo Saka has shone for Arsenal this term, Michael Owen believes he should be dropped from the England side in place of Chelsea’s Cole Palmer. He told Gambling Zone: "I'd now start Cole Palmer instead of Saka.
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“If I was Southgate, the one thing I would look at is Anthony Gordon on the left and Marcus Rashford . They would be on the mind as left-siders because I want pace in my team from somewhere and both offer that.
“I would go with whoever is on form: start one in one group game, start another in another. But for the rest of it I would keep the same. I do not think you can ignore Palmer's form and quality for any longer.”
Michael Owen has made a bold claim about Bukayo Saka (Getty Images)Who do you think Arsenal should sign this summer? Share your suggestions in the comments below
Zanetti approves Zirkzee swoop
Saka could potentially have a new attacking colleague next summer in the form of Joshua Zirkzee. But Arsenal could face competition as they attempt to sign him from Inter Milan.
Club icon Javier Zanetti has hinted that the Italian giants could make a move. Speaking to Radio TV Serie A via Metro, he said: “Zirkzee is a great champion. We are talking about a young, talented, intelligent, physically very strong player.
“Someone like that would be useful to any great team aiming for important goals. Let’s see… if the opportunity arises we can think about it.
“With Zirkzee, Lautaro [Martinez] and [Marcus] Thuram we would have a young and strong attack. They would give us peace of mind.”
Gunners face Obi-Martin battle
Zirkzee might not be the only striker at the centre of a tug of war this summer. According to reports, Arsenal face a fight to keep young striker Chido Obi-Martin in North London.
Bayern Munich are interested in a move for the 16-year-old, who can put pen to paper on a professional deal with clubs in the European Union. Obi-Martin is not able to sign a pro contract with Arsenal until he turns 17.
The youngster has been in sensational form this term. He has netted 28 goals in just 22 appearances across various age groups.
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