Why Arsenal could be handed a transfer boost by Hudson-Odoi

Suraj Radia

• 24 Aug 2022 20:38 BST
• 3 min read

Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi is set to join Bayer Leverkusen on loan in a move that could help Arsenal secure one of their top transfer targets.

Hudson-Odoi was believed to have in the region of 20 offers to choose from, including a host of Premier League sides, after being told he could leave in search of first-team football.

But the 21-year-old has opted to join the Bundesliga outfit and discussions are being held over the presence of a buy option and buy-back clause, with Chelsea looking to replace him with Everton's Anthony Gordon.

The arrival of a winger at Leverkusen could raise question marks over the future of Moussa Diaby, with Arsenal admirers of the Frenchman and looking to strengthen their front line.

With a move for Pedro Neto appearing to be difficult due to Wolves' reluctance to sell, Arsenal could make a fresh approach for Diaby knowing that Leverkusen may have just signed his replacement.

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Can Arsenal secure Diaby?

Newcastle had enquired about Diaby earlier in the summer but were put off by Leverkusen's asking price and the 23-year-old had previously stated he would stay with his current side this season.

While the German club are looking to extend his deal, an offer from Arsenal could tempt the forward to alter his plans and a bid of €60 million could test Leverkusen's resolve.

Neto is believed to be Arsenal's primary target for the remainder of the transfer window but the Portuguese international signed a new five-year contract in March and Wolves had told interested parties that he was not for sale.

Arsenal have spent more than £100m on players so far this summer and they reportedly are not willing to sign players without selling some first due to financial fair play regulations.

Nicolas Pepe is set to join Nice on loan while Ainsley Maitland-Niles is wanted by West Ham among other Premier League sides.

Hector Bellerin is another player who could leave, with the Spaniard looking to return to La Liga after a successful loan spell with Real Betis last season/

With Arsenal only willing to sanction a low-cost deal that represents financial value as well as an upgrade to their squad, a move for Diaby could be difficult but Hudson-Odoi's arrival in Germany will have undoubtedly given the Gunners some confidence.