EXCLUSIVE: Arsenal and Liverpool battle for Wolves gem

Steve Kay

• Updated: 16 Jan 2024 15:39 GMT
• 3 min read

Exclusive

Arsenal and Liverpool are targeting Algerian international Rayan Ait-Nouri of Wolves, FootballTransfers can reveal.

The Gunners are actively seeking to bolster their left-back position and recently encountered resistance from the Midlands club in their pursuit of the defender following a failed offer.

Meanwhile, discussions between Wolves and Liverpool have already taken place. We are told that Nouri may depart at the end of the season or potentially in January if a bid exceeding £50 million is presented. Arsenal made a proposal but it was knocked back by Wolves, who are demanding more to allow him to leave.

A winter transfer for Ait-Nouri could be complicated by his involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations, potentially sidelining him from domestic action until mid-February.

Arsenal’s transfer plans

Indeed, sources have told us that there are indications that Arsenal wish to overhaul the full-back positions across the next two transfer windows. Mikel Arteta’s goal is to have four top-class inverted fullbacks in the squad, who will be consistently available for selection throughout the season. Nouri, known for excelling in the inverted full-back role, is considered a suitable match.

Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen remains Arsenal's targeted right-back on the opposite side, we understand. Additionally, there is a concerted effort to secure a new striker in the January transfer window, though the club will have to ensure that they are in line with Financial Fair Play regulations.

Furthermore, Takehiro Tomiyasu has recently emerged as a potential target for Bayern Munich. Thomas Tuchel is keen on securing Tomiyasu's services at the Allianz Arena at the earliest opportunity. However, now in response, Arsenal have swiftly initiated discussions regarding a new contract for Tomiyasu, in a bid to increase his value and put off the prying Bundesliga giants.