Mikel Arteta will want Andrea Berta to fast-track Eberechi Eze deal after key weakness exposed against Newcastle

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Eberechi Eze remains a key summer transfer target for Arsenal and the importance of getting him in was shown against Newcastle United.

Despite the arrival of Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke, the Gunners still want to add another attacker, with the North London club linked to several options.

Eze appears to be at the top of Arsenal’s list, meanwhile, Rafael Leao, Xavi Simons and Rodrygo Goes are three other names being linked with moves to the Emirates Stadium.

But after Arsenal’s 3-2 win over Newcastle in Singapore, Mikel Arteta will now be pushing for Andrea Berta to sign at least one of those players.

Ethan Nwaneri shows Arsenal need more reliable number ten option

Ethan Nwaneri started in the number ten role for Arsenal against Newcastle, but the youngster struggled to get a foothold in the game.

The 18-year-old was withdrawn at the break and replaced by Martin Odegaard, as the Gunners struggled to carve out chances in the first 45 minutes.

Arsenal led 2-1 at the break, but failed to create a single big chance in the first half, with Leandro Trossard also failing to make an impact on the left.

But for the teenager, he showed that he might not be ready this season to be regularly featuring in a central role for Arteta’s side.

The Hale End product had just 12 touches against the Tyneside club, whilst losing possession on two occasions.

There’s no doubt about his potential, but for now, his best position seems to be off the left, where Arsenal are now well stocked with Bukayo Saka and Madueke.

During contract talks, TBR Football learned that Arteta promised Nwaneri minutes in the number ten role.

Without their captain in the team, Arsenal look devoid of any creativity in central areas, and there is an over-reliance on Saka to play this role.

Therefore, signing an alternative option to Odegaard and a player who can also operate off the left wing needs to be a priority heading into the final month of the transfer window.

Eberechi Eze thinks he’s joining Arsenal this summer

TBR Football understands that Eze has informed his friends he’s joining Arsenal this summer, with talks having taken place already.

Arsenal could offer Crystal Palace Reiss Nelson as part of a deal for the 27-year-old, although the South London club will surely want his release clause paid.

Eze has a £60m release clause at Palace, which the Gunners could attempt to negotiate on to secure a better financial structure for the deal.

But, the England international would undoubtedly be the ideal fit for Arteta’s squad, given his ability to play on the left of the attack and also as a number ten.