FORMER Arsenal star Marc Overmars has left his job as Ajax Director of Football over inappropriate messages to female colleagues.
The Dutchman had previously been linked with the same role at the Emirates, before Arsenal hired Edu.
On the transfer front, the North Londoners are chasing a £180m TRIPLE deal this summer, SunSport can reveal.
The Emirates outfit are looking to sign Ruben Neves from Wolves, as well as attacking duo Alexander Isak and Dominic Calvert Lewin respectively.
They've also been linked with a move for RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku.
But they are reportedly in danger of losing Bukayo Saka to Liverpool if they do not make the Champions League.
Keep up to date with all the latest Arsenal transfer news here at SunSport
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- Kealan Hughes
Morning, Arsenal fans
Bruno Guimaraes admits he was happy to snub Arsenal – and Christopher Nkunku might be just as difficult to lure.
Ex-Lyon midfielder Guimaraes says he chose Newcastle as they will be a 'world power'.
And RB Leipzig have pledged to fight to keep French winger Nkunku.
Meanwhile, Gunners' boss Mikel Arteta is preparing for Thursday's Premier League trup to Wolves with virtually a full squad.
Midfield stars Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey are free after suspension.
And life up front without Barcelona new boy Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang seems more comfortable as Gabriel Martinelli is approaching peak form after injury.
But Arteta will still seek a new frontman at the end of the season.
And ex-Arsenal striker Kevin Campbell even wants the Gunners to compete for Borussia Dortmund goal machine Erling Haaland.
Campbell said: “if you can get Haaland, you get him. If you can, then you get the best players in the building.
"We lack that striker who is going to bang 20-25 goals in so if you can get that then you get it regardless.”
- Ian Tuckey
Toon can win Champions League
Bruno Guimaraes revealed he snubbed Arsenal because Newcastle CAN win the Champions League, writes OSCAR PAUL.
The Brazilian midfielder star is in line to make his debut tonight against Everton and vowed to turn Newcastle into a global power.
Guimaraes, 24, signed for the Saudi Arabia-owned Toon from Lyon for a fee rising to £42million amid January interest from Arsenal.
Asked if relegation-threatened Newcastle are as big as the Gunners, he declared: “Definitely. We are going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“They’ve won league titles but we want more — we want to win the Champions League. The owners were very up front and honest. They didn’t disguise that the main objective and challenge was remaining in the Premier League this season.
“But in the seasons coming, the objective is to be in the Champions League and to eventually win the Champions League.
“I believe in the project and I believe in everything they told me.”
- Ian Tuckey
Is Gnab worth a grab?
Ex-Arsenal youth winger Serge Gnabry is reportedly at loggerheads with Bayern Munich over a new deal.
So what price a bid from his old club or other Premier League giants for the 31-cap Germany star?
Gnabry, 26, has 18 months left on his current Bayern deal.
Credit: Getty
- Ian Tuckey
Wilshere has Arsenal squad number
Arsenal’s eagle-eyed fans have spotted Jack Wilshere with a new squad number while training with the club in Dubai during the winter break.
The 30-year-old was seen donning a No.12 vest on Gunners striker Alexandre Lacazette’s Dubai vlog after working out in the sweltering sun at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex.https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.496.0_en.html#goog_635576990Play Video
Wilshere’s been keeping fit with the Gunners over the past few months whilst hunting for a new club.
He’s been linked with a number of teams across the globe including Newcastle, Brazilian side Fortaleza, and French club Lille who rejected an offer to sign Wilshere.
Although the midfielder’s open to joining any team apart from Tottenham, none of the potential transfers have materialised.
There was even whispers that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was open to giving Wilshere – who played 198 times for the Gunners between 2008 and 2018, scoring 14 goals and winning two FA Cups – a deal back in December.
But Arsenal fans shouldn’t get their hopes up for a full-time return to North London for Wilshere despite the new shirt number and rumours surrounding his stay – as he’s revealed that Arteta doesn’t want him on a permanent basis.
Wilshere told talkSPORT when asked why he won’t be staying at Arsenal, Wilshere said: “Because the manager doesn’t want me to. Well, I don’t think he does.”
- Ian Tuckey
Utd are 'biggest transfer losers'
Manchester United have made by far the biggest loss on transfers in the Prem in the past 10 years, research says.
CIES Football Observatory say United were £78million more in debut than neighbours City.
The Red Devils' worst-value big buys probably include Angel Di Maria (£67.5m), Anthony Martial (£54m) and Harry Maguire (£78m).
And so far the £112m double buy of Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane could, so far, hardly be called money well spent.
- Ian Tuckey
Transfer Ku tough to pull off
Another player on Mikel Arteta’s shopping list is RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, but the German club have been quick to tell interested parties that the Frenchman is going absolutely nowhere.
Leipzig’s Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff warned off potential suitors by highlighting Nkunku’s importance to the team, adding that he will be playing with the Red Bulls next season.
The 24-year-old has been in fine form this campaign, netting ten goals in 21 Bundesliga appearances.
He also caught the eye in the Champions League group stage with seven goals including a hat-trick in the 6-3 defeat at Manchester City.
Credit: Getty - Ian Tuckey
Is Gnab worth a grab?
Ex-Arsenal youth winger Serge Gnabry is reportedly at loggerheads with Bayern Munich over a new deal.
So what price a bid from his old club or other Premier League giants for the 31-cap Germany star?
Gnabry, 26, has 18 months left on his current Bayern deal.
Credit: Getty - Ian Tuckey
Why Bruno was happy not to join Gunners
Bruno Guimaraes insists he has 'no doubts' over joining Newcastle over Arsenal and Juventus.
The Brazil midfielder claims the Saud-backed Toon will rival traditional giants.
And when quizzed about Newcastle's status compared to the Gunners: “We are definitely going to be a club that is going to be a big power in world football.
“This is a historic club with a great tradition and a beautiful history. I have no doubts about my decision to come to Newcastle.
“Newcastle have presented something really interesting. I was so happy with the trust and faith the directors and president placed in me.
"I am someone who is driven by challenges.”
- Ian Tuckey
Arsenal urged to rival Man Utd for Erling
Arsenal should break the bank to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland, according to former striker Kevin Campbell – even if it’s to the detriment of the rest of the squad.
The Gunners are short of strikers following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s departure, and having missed out on top target Dusan Vlahovic. Captain Alexandre Lacazette is also out of contract this summer.
Speaking to the Highbury Squad, Campbell admitted that “if you can get Haaland, you get him.”
“Haaland is one of the best in the world,” he added. “If you can, then you get the best players in the building.
“If you had to break the bank to get Haaland and that hindered you in filling the squad. Do you do it?
“That’s what we really lack, isn’t it? We lack that striker who is going to bang 20-25 goals in so if you can get that then you get it regardless.”
- Ian Tuckey
Smith Rowe lead improved stats
Arsenal’s progress under Mikel Arteta this season has been one of the Premier League’s most intriguing stories.
Particularly impressive has been the way in which August arrival Takehiro Tomiyasu has linked up with Bukayo Saka on the right flank.
The Japanese defender has been responsible for the most successful tackles in the Gunners’ ranks, while Saka has provided the most crosses and assists.
Keeping the pair together and allowing them to flourish is surely essential to any Arsenal success in the near future.
- Ian Tuckey
Super Omari oh, yes
Gunners' whizkid Omari Hutchinson added a weaving wondergoal to a collection of dazzling clips.
The Arsenal academyposted what they call 'one of the best solo goals you'll see all season' as the attacking midfielder rounded off a 3-1 Premier League 2 win.
Hutchinson, who can also play as a No10, is pushing for promotion from the under-23s.
- Ian Tuckey
Leipzig fight to keep Arsenal target Nkunku
Another player on Mikel Arteta’s shopping list is RB Leipzig’s Christopher Nkunku, but the German club have been quick to tell interested parties that the Frenchman is going absolutely nowhere.
Credit: Getty Leipzig’s Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff warned off potential suitors by highlighting Nkunku’s importance to the team, adding that he will be playing with the Red Bulls next season.
The 24-year-old has been in fine form this campaign, netting ten goals in 21 Bundesliga appearances.
He also caught the eye in the Champions League group stage with seven goals including a hat-trick in the 6-3 defeat at Manchester City.
- Ian Tuckey
Wilshere has Arsenal squad number
Arsenal's eagle-eyed fans have spotted Jack Wilshere with a new squad number while training with the club in Dubai during the winter break.
The 30-year-old was seen donning a No.12 vest on Gunners striker Alexandre Lacazette's Dubai vlog after working out in the sweltering sun at the Nad Al Sheba Sports Complex.
Arsenal fans spot Jack Wilshere now has squad number but Mikel Arteta ‘doesn’t want’ former player back
Wilshere's been keeping fit with the Gunners over the past few months whilst hunting for a new club.
He's been linked with a number of teams across the globe including Newcastle, Brazilian side Fortaleza, and French club Lille who rejected an offer to sign Wilshere.
Although the midfielder's open to joining any team apart from Tottenham, none of the potential transfers have materialised.
There was even whispers that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta was open to giving Wilshere – who played 198 times for the Gunners between 2008 and 2018, scoring 14 goals and winning two FA Cups – a deal back in December.
But Arsenal fans shouldn't get their hopes up for a full-time return to North London for Wilshere despite the new shirt number and rumours surrounding his stay – as he's revealed that Arteta doesn't want him on a permanent basis.
Wilshere told talkSPORT when asked why he won't be staying at Arsenal, Wilshere said: "Because the manager doesn't want me to. Well, I don't think he does."
- Ian Tuckey
Lacazette shows leadership off the field
The captain’s role at Arsenal has been questioned on numerous occasions this season, but Alexandre Lacazette is a player and person that looks perfectly suited to the role.
The striker took on the armband following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s disciplinary issues before Christmas, and has led by example on the pitch.
Now the striker is showing his character in the community too. Following a post on Twitter about the bullying of her young Arsenal-supporting son, Lacazette reached out to mum Fran to reassure her and to invite them both to an upcoming game.
Top man.
- Sam Dymond
Gunners should aim high for Haaland
Arsenal should break the bank to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland, according to former striker Kevin Campbell – even if it's to the detriment of the rest of the squad.
The Gunners are short of strikers following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's departure, and having missed out on top target Dusan Vlahovic. Captain Alexandre Lacazette is also out of contract this summer.
Speaking to the Highbury Squad, Campbell admitted that “if you can get Haaland, you get him."
“Haaland is one of the best in the world," he added. "If you can, then you get the best players in the building.
“If you had to break the bank to get Haaland and that hindered you in filling the squad. Do you do it?
“That’s what we really lack, isn’t it? We lack that striker who is going to bang 20-25 goals in so if you can get that then you get it regardless."
- Sam Dymond
Mari merry with Udinese move
Pablo Mari enjoyed his first game for Udinese by helping the Italian outfit to a clean sheet and three vital points in Serie A.
The Arsenal loanee played all 90 minutes in the 2-0 win over Torino with both Udinese goals coming in stoppage time.
It was a less enjoyable weekend for Lucas Torreira, who was sent off for two bookable offences in Fiorentina's 3-0 defeat to Lazio.
Elsewhere in the Italian top-flight, Ainsley Maitland-Niles played almost an hour as Roma were held to a 0-0 draw by Genoa.
- Sam Dymond
Gunners getting it right
Arsenal's progress under Mikel Arteta this season has been one of the Premier League's most intriguing stories.
Particularly impressive has been the way in which August arrival Takehiro Tomiyasu has linked up with Bukayo Saka on the right flank.
The Japanese defender has been responsible for the most successful tackles in the Gunners' ranks, while Saka has provided the most crosses and assists.
Keeping the pair together and allowing them to flourish is surely essential to any Arsenal success in the near future.
- Sam Dymond
Despair at Dusan's debut delight
The free weekend also meant that some sadistic Gooners were able to check in on Dusan Vlahovic's Juventus debut – and it took just 13 minutes for the Serbian to rub salt into their wounds.
Arsenal had been tracking the Fiorentina striker for months, only for him to opt for Juve instead during the final days of the January transfer window.
Having sealed a £66million move to the Old Lady, Vlahovic wasted no time in endearing himself to his new supporters by scoring a sublime early lob in a 2-0 home win over Verona.
Ironically, Arsenal's attention now appears to be drawn towards Juventus' Pablo Dybala, who set up Vlahovic's debut goal with a clever through ball.
- Sam Dymond
Sousa shines on first start
With the first team not in action at the weekend, Arsenal fans took the opportunity to follow the U18 side and were impressed by the performance of Lino Sousa.
The highly-rated 17-year-old signed his first professional contract with the Gunners having joined from West Bromwich Albion in the January transfer window, and has already begun to make an impression.
Following his debut as a sub in last month's defeat to Chelsea, Sousa made his first start for the U18s against Leicester on Saturday.
Operating on the left wing, Sousa caught the eye and won the penalty from which Khayon Edwards netted Arsenal's goal in the 1-1 draw.
- Sam Dymond
Elneny returns a runner-up
Mohamed Elneny endured the heartbreak of penalties as Egypt were beaten in the final of the African Cup of Nations by Senegal.
The Arsenal midfielder played the full 120 minutes as the game ended goalless after extra-time, only for the Lions of Teranga to prevail 4-2 in the shootout.
Egypt were chasing a record eighth title but rarely troubled their opponents, and could have lost the game in normal time had Sadio Mane scored his seventh minute penalty.
However, Mane made amends by scoring the decisive kick in the shootout, which meant Elneny returns to London as a runner-up.
Credit: @Arsenal Twitter - Sam Dymond
Auba joy at Barca debut
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's fall from grace at the Emirates was sudden, but things now appear on the up for the 32-year-old.
The Gabonese forward sealed a permanent move away from Arsenal last week, joining Barcelona on a free transfer.
Aubameyang went straight into Xavi's squad for Saturday's La Liga game with Atletico Madrid, and earned a half-hour runout as a second half substitute when replacing fellow debutant Adama Traore.
Barca eventually stormed to a 4-2 victory and afterwards Aubameyang took to Instagram to write: "Wearing this jersey for the first time – what an unbelievable feeling. Strong team performance and huge win for us today.”
- Sam Dymond
Captain Laca's touching gesture
The captain's role at Arsenal has been questioned on numerous occasions this season, but Alexandre Lacazette is a player and person that looks perfectly suited to the role.
The striker took on the armband following Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang's disciplinary issues before Christmas, and has led by example on the pitch.
Now the striker is showing his character in the community too. Following a post on Twitter about the bullying of her young Arsenal-supporting son, Lacazette reached out to mum Fran to reassure her and to invite them both to an upcoming game.
Top man.
- Sam Dymond
Gunners facing pivotal period
Sixth-placed Arsenal are nicely poised for an assault on the top four, but their schedule over the coming weeks may leave them even further off the pace in the battle for Champions League football.
There are nine Premier League games scheduled for this midweek, but with the Gunners not playing until Thursday, they are likely to head to Molineux behind rivals Tottenham – who host Southampton on Wednesday – in the table.
And a defeat at Wolves would see Bruno Lage's team also leapfrog the Londoners, who then have another weekend off due to Chelsea's involvement in the Club World Cup.
Mikel Arteta's side already have games in hand on all of the sides currently above them, including two on West Ham and three on Thomas Tuchel's Blues.
- Sam Dymond
Arsenal dealt Nkunku blow
Another player on Mikel Arteta's shopping list is RB Leipzig's Christopher Nkunku, but the German club have been quick to tell interested parties that the Frenchman is going absolutely nowhere.
Leipzig's Managing Director Oliver Mintzlaff warned off potential suitors by highlighting Nkunku's importance to the team, adding that he will be playing with the Red Bulls next season.
The 24-year-old has been in fine form this campaign, netting ten goals in 21 Bundesliga appearances.
He also caught the eye in the Champions League group stage with seven goals including a hat-trick in the 6-3 defeat at Manchester City.
- Sam Dymond
Overmars return unlikely after Ajax exit
Marc Overmars' departure in disgrace from his role as Ajax's Director of Football will ensure there will be no fairytale return to Arsenal.
The former Gunners star has left the Dutch club after a series of inappropriate messages sent to female colleagues were discovered.
The 48-year-old had been linked with a return to Arsenal earlier in the season when Edu's position as Technical Director was questioned following the club's poor start.
Overmars was a popular figure in north London during his playing days, helping Arsene Wenger's team to a league and cup double in 1998.
Marc Overmars in action for Arsenal in 1998.
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