The Loose Cannon Podcast

Eze Does It? More Like Eze Does Benchwarming at the Emirates

In this episode, we delve into Arsenal's latest transfer rumor involving Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze. With £68m potentially on the table, the Gunners are eyeing the stylish midfielder to add flair to their squad. However, questions arise about where Eze fits into Arsenal's already crowded midfield, which boasts talents like Declan Rice and Ødegaard.As Rio Ferdinand questions the logic of the move, the discussion pivots to Arsenal's true needs. Is Eze a luxury rotation option or the missing piece in Arteta's puzzle? With the potential sale of a forward to make space, the debate intensifies about whether Arsenal should focus on acquiring a back-up striker instead.Join us as we explore the pros and cons of the Eze pursuit, the potential reshuffling of Arsenal's lineup, and why the club might need to prioritize goals over glamour in their quest for Premier League glory.

Special: Ian Wright Wants Lookman – So Let’s Make It Happen, Arsenal

As summer heats up, so does the transfer gossip, with Arsenal fans anxiously hoping for a forward who can consistently find the back of the net. Enter Ademola Lookman, the 27-year-old forward who recently handed in a transfer request at Atalanta, citing "broken promises" from the club's management.Lookman's impressive record, including a Europa League-winning hat-trick and 52 goals in 117 games for Atalanta, has caught the attention of many, including Arsenal legend Ian Wright. The reigning African Footballer of the Year could be the solution Arsenal needs, especially with ongoing concerns about Gabriel Jesus' fitness.With new transfer chief Andrea Berta at the helm, this could be a pivotal moment for Arsenal. The question remains: will Arsenal make the decisive move for Lookman, or risk losing him to rivals like Spurs?

Leo No-Go!

In this episode of The Loose Cannon, we delve into the audacious move by Brentford to lure Leandro Trossard away from Arsenal. FootballTransfers.com has revealed that the Bees have reached out to Trossard's camp, hoping to fill the gap left by Yoane Wissa's likely departure. However, with Trossard being a key player in Arsenal's recent successes, including a Champions League semi-final appearance, is this just wishful thinking on Brentford's part? We explore Trossard's current standing at Arsenal, where he's valued by Mikel Arteta despite contract uncertainties, and the challenges Brentford faces in matching his ambitions and wages. With the Gunners still in contention for major titles, would Trossard really trade in Champions League nights for a mid-table existence? Join us as we analyze the feasibility of this transfer, the implications for both clubs, and why Brentford might be stung in their pursuit of this talented winger. Is it a dream move or just a flight of fancy? Tune in to find out!

Haunted by Nayim on the halfway line again!

The Asia Tour concluded with unexpected drama as Tottenham Hotspur edged out Arsenal in the first-ever North London Derby held outside the UK, at a packed Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong. Despite an overwhelmingly Arsenal-supporting crowd, it was Spurs' Pape Sarr who stole the show with a speculative goal, amid controversy over a potential foul in the build-up.The match was more than just a friendly, with tickets selling out in two hours and an atmosphere resembling a home game for Arsenal. The game began with early chances from both sides, including a near goal from Arsenal's Martin Ødegaard and a fluke corner that hit the post for Spurs. However, it was Sarr's audacious strike that made the difference, leaving Arsenal trailing at halftime.The second half saw Arsenal push for an equalizer with efforts from Saka, Odegaard, and Martinelli, while Spurs defended resolutely. Despite introducing new signings like Viktor Gyokeres, Arsenal couldn't find the breakthrough. Tottenham's disciplined defense held firm, securing a memorable win with their only shot on target.As Arsenal returns to London, they look ahead to upcoming matches against Villarreal and Athletic Club, with the Premier League opener against Manchester United on the horizon. The team hopes to carry forward the lessons from the tour and improve on their performance as the new season approaches.

Eze does it?

Just as Arsenal fans were settling into the excitement of securing Viktor Gyokeres, a new transfer rumor has emerged to stir the pot: Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. The Independent reports that Arsenal, having wrapped up the Gyokeres deal, are now considering Eze as their next target, with manager Mikel Arteta allegedly keen on the midfielder.Eze is known for his flair and dribbling skills, yet questions arise about his potential impact at Arsenal. The club hopes to negotiate a £60 million deal, slightly below his £68 million release clause, possibly through a three-part payment plan. However, the deal's progression may depend on offloading a current player, with Reiss Nelson being a potential candidate.The episode debates whether Eze is the right fit for Arsenal, especially given the hefty price tag. Comparisons are drawn to Leandro Trossard, who has proven effective and versatile at a fraction of the cost. The discussion raises concerns about spending on luxury when the team's essentials seem well covered, questioning if Eze is the missing piece or an unnecessary addition to Arteta's puzzle.

Gyo Gets Goal-Getter Shirt #14

Arsenal's transfer window excitement hits new heights as Viktor Gyökeres, dubbed "Viktor the Viking," lands in Singapore to a hero's welcome. With an astonishing 97 goals in 102 games for Sporting Lisbon, Gyökeres promises to be the striking powerhouse Arsenal fans have been waiting for. Andrea Berta, the new Sporting Director, affirms that Gyökeres embodies the club's vision, while Mikel Arteta praises his intelligent movement and clinical edge. During a thrilling pre-season match in Singapore, Arsenal secures a dramatic 3-2 victory over Newcastle. Newcomer Max Dowman wins a crucial penalty with his fearless play, allowing Martin Odegaard to seal the win with a last-minute goal. Despite a shaky start, Arsenal's young talents and strategic play turn the tide, showcasing the team's potential for the upcoming season. As Arsenal prepares for a North London Derby against Spurs in Hong Kong, fans eagerly anticipate the debut of Gyökeres in the iconic number 14 shirt. With two wins in two and a new star striker, Arsenal is poised for an exciting 2025-26 season. The Viking era has begun, and Tottenham should be on high alert.

Pre-season starts with a sizzle

Arsenal returned to Singapore with a stylish 1-0 victory over AC Milan, kicking off their Asia Tour in sun-drenched fashion. Bukayo Saka scored the decisive goal, showcasing his trademark composure and skill. Despite being a friendly match, the game had an intense atmosphere, with the Gunners maintaining pressure and control throughout.The spotlight was shared by young talents Ethan Nwaneri, Max Dowman, and Marli Salmon, who impressed with fearless performances. Nwaneri nearly scored early on, while Dowman made a memorable impact with a close attempt. New signings also got their first taste of action, contributing to a promising display.The match concluded with a dramatic penalty shootout, ending 6-5 in favor of AC Milan. However, the real victory belonged to Arsenal as they left the field with optimism and a glimpse of their potential for the upcoming season. With no injuries and a blend of youth and experience, Arteta's side looks forward to building on this momentum.

Not the most surprising transfer news!

Arsenal has bolstered its defense with the signing of Cristhian Mosquera, a promising young centre-back from Valencia, marking the club's fifth acquisition this summer. At just 21, Mosquera has already made a significant impact in European football, boasting 73 top-flight appearances and an impressive tackle success rate. Born in Alicante to Colombian parents, his journey from basketball courts to football fields has been remarkable, earning him a spot among The Guardian's Top 60 Young Talents in 2021.Mosquera's arrival continues Arsenal's trend of Spanish imports, joining a team eager to strengthen its defensive lineup. His Olympic gold with Spain underscores his pedigree and potential to make an immediate impact. However, with established players like Saliba in the squad, the question remains: will Mosquera be a regular on the pitch or another development project?With massive potential and a cool head, Mosquera's signing is more than a gamble; it's a strategic move that could shape Arsenal's defense for years to come. Fans hope to see him rise to become a key player in the Gunners' quest for glory.