Aston Villa has submitted a formal offer of £50 million for Amadou Onana. Onana has agreed to join Aston Villa because he is impressed with the concrete plans they have in place

According to David Ornstein of the Athletic, Amadou Onana, a transfer target for Arsenal, is nearing a move to Aston Villa in a £50 million deal. Despite previous links with Arsenal, Onana appears set to join Villa Park. The Gunners, who are keen on bolstering their midfield this summer, may face dwindling options. Meanwhile, AS Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana, also of interest to Arsenal, seems focused on a move to AC Milan after agreeing on personal terms.

With Thomas Partey potentially leaving, Arsenal’s need for a midfield replacement is urgent. Candidates like Dani Olmo, Eberechi Eze, Mikel Merino, and Martin Zubimendi are under consideration. Arteta has a particular admiration for Merino, noting his skills and physicality as impressive qualities. There’s speculation Arsenal could secure Merino for around €30 million (£25m), with his contract expiring next summer.

As Arsenal’s transfer options narrow, Arteta acknowledges a slower market and new regulations affecting business dynamics. Despite challenges, Arsenal aims to enhance competitiveness and strengthen the squad across all areas during this transfer window.