Arsenal are reportedly engaged in negotiations with Belgian side Genk regarding the highly-touted transfer of Greek midfield prodigy Konstantinos Karetsas. Following an impressive breakthrough season in Belgium, where the 17-year-old has dazzled with his performances, Karetsas has piqued the interest of several top European clubs, including Real Madrid. However, it appears that the Gunners have stolen a march on their rivals, as they look to bring the rising star to the Emirates this summer.
According to reports circulating in Greece via the Athens-Macedonian News Agency, Arsenal and Genk have entered advanced discussions over the deal. The North London club is believed to have proposed a substantial £38 million package, which would see Karetsas initially return to Genk on loan for the 2025/26 campaign before making the switch to Arsenal.
Should this move come to fruition, it would shatter the transfer record for a Greek player, previously set by Kostas Manolas’ £30 million transfer from Roma to Napoli in 2019. The capture of Karetsas would underline Arsenal’s ambition in the transfer market as they seek to bolster their squad.
In the midst of these developments, the club’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, is actively working behind the scenes, orchestrating Arsenal’s transfer strategy. Beyond midfield reinforcements, Arsenal remain keen on securing a new No.9 before the summer transfer window slams shut. Berta has pinpointed Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as potential acquisitions, both having showcased impressive form last season.
Decision time looms for Berta, with talkSPORT suggesting Arsenal’s hierarchy is deliberating on whether to move for Gyokeres or Sesko. While Sesko has been a long-term target for the Gunners, Gyokeres has recently emerged as an enticing option following his standout performances in Portugal.
Manager Mikel Arteta has teased a busy summer ahead, expressing the club’s intent to elevate their squad further. In his words, “It’s going to be a very exciting summer. We will review our achievements, find ways to enhance our game, and, if necessary, identify who we need to recruit to make a difference.”
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