Arsenal chase Championship star as Saka back-up

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 7 Jul 2024 14:59 BST
• 3 min read

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Watford winger Yaser Asprilla as they search for a back-up option to Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal are actively searching for a new winger and have seemingly identified Asprilla as an alternative to Nico Williams and Pedro Neto, both of whom have been linked with a move to north London.

The 20-year-old is currently competing at the 2024 Copa America with Colombia, and he could be set for a big-money summer move.

READ MORE: Premier League summer transfers 2024 - All the Done Deals

According to the print edition of The Mirror (as per GiveMeSport), Arsenal are interested in rivalling Everton for Asprilla’s signature as they look to bolster Mikel Arteta’s squad.

The Colombian scored six goals and provided seven assists in 44 Championship appearances last season as Watford finished 15th in the second tier.

Asprilla has spent the past two years in England, following a €3 million move from Envigado to Watford in 2022.

READ MORE: Arsenal to sell star after sealing Calafiori transfer - Romano

Arsenal have already signed David Raya on a permanent deal this summer, and they are closing in on a deal to purchase Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.

The highly-rated defender has reportedly agreed to join Arteta’s side and the Gunners are on the verge of finalising a deal for the Euro 2024 star.

Arsenal prepare Bukayo Saka contract talks

In other Arsenal news, the Gunners are set to initiate contract extension talks with Bukayo Saka, as per CaughtOffside.

The England international’s current deal at the Emirates Stadium runs until 2027 and Arsenal are eager to extend his contract by a further three years.

Manchester City are reportedly long-term admirers of Saka, but the 22-year-old is unlikely to leave Arsenal.

Saka notched 34 goals and assists during the 2023-24 campaign, while he was nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award. However, he lost out to Chelsea star Cole Palmer.