The Loose Cannon Podcast

Method or Madness at Arsenal?

Arsenal is nearing a deal to acquire Noni Madueke from Chelsea, with personal terms reportedly settled and only the transfer fee remaining. The 23-year-old winger, currently with Chelsea for the Club World Cup, is set to sign a five-year contract with the Gunners. However, this move has sparked discontent among Arsenal fans, who are weary of the club's pattern of signing former Chelsea players.While Chelsea demands around £50 million for Madueke, his lack of fit under new Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca raises questions about the valuation. Arsenal's previous acquisitions from Stamford Bridge, including Willian, David Luiz, and Jorginho, have left sections of the fanbase frustrated, feeling that the Emirates is becoming a refuge for Chelsea's unwanted players.The potential signing of Madueke has led to fan protests, including petitions and graffiti calling for Arteta's departure. Despite other promising transfers like Martin Zubimendi and ongoing talks for players like Viktor Gyökeres, the Madueke deal has cast a shadow over Arsenal's transfer strategy, leaving fans questioning the club's ambition.

Third Arsenal Signing Confirmed

Arsenal fans, brace yourselves! The club welcomes its third summer signing, Danish midfielder Christian Nørgaard, as he makes the leap from Brentford to the Emirates. This move comes after securing Kepa and Zubimendi, adding a dynamic edge to the Gunners' lineup.Nørgaard, 31, brings a wealth of experience with 196 appearances at Brentford, contributing 13 goals and 18 assists. He fills the void left by Partey and Jorginho, offering both strength and intelligence in midfield, embodying the traits that manager Mikel Arteta values.With a strong foundation from Lyngby and a prominent international career, Nørgaard has showcased his talents on both club and international stages. His leadership skills are evident, having captained Denmark's U-19s and Brentford numerous times, and his prowess in ball-winning and set-pieces will be invaluable to Arsenal.Nørgaard's signing is not just a strategic move but also a reunion with former teammate David Raya, and a continuation of his journey under Thomas Frank's mentorship. Off the field, his passions and ambitions reflect his dedication, from creating scrapbooks with his grandmother to aspiring for coaching badges.As Arsenal gears up for the Champions League, Nørgaard promises to be a vital asset, bringing grit and expertise to the squad. Welcome, Christian, to the Emirates Stadium—where the action is set to be electrifying!

No Gyo After All For Arsenal?

The anticipated arrival of Viktor Gyokeres at Arsenal has hit a roadblock, leaving fans in suspense as negotiations with Sporting Lisbon stall. Despite Arsenal's generous offer, the Portuguese club demands more, leading to a deadlock that threatens the deal.As tensions rise, Gyokeres expresses his frustration, even willing to sacrifice part of his salary to join the Gunners. Meanwhile, Arsenal considers alternative targets like Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke, as they navigate a challenging transfer window.With new signings like Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga, Arsenal's squad evolves, but the missing striker remains a glaring gap. Will the saga resolve in Arsenal's favor, or will Gyokeres find himself elsewhere? The unfolding drama keeps fans eagerly awaiting the next move.

Sesko snubbed for Gyokeres

The transfer window drama continues as Arsenal reopens negotiations with Sporting Lisbon for Viktor Gyökeres. With personal terms already agreed upon, the focus now shifts to finalizing a deal with the Portuguese club. The Swedish striker, known for his impressive performance in the Primeira Liga, could bring the physical presence Arsenal has been missing since the days of Olivier Giroud.This move marks a significant shift from Arsenal's recent interest in Benjamin Šeško, whose potential transfer fell through due to financial disagreements with RB Leipzig. Now, Arsenal hopes to secure Gyökeres and strengthen their attacking lineup. The question remains whether Arsenal can finally close the deal or if the search for a new striker will continue.

Gyokeres taking pay cut for Arsenal

In a bold move that showcases his unwavering desire to join Arsenal, Viktor Gyökeres is reportedly willing to take a €2 million pay cut to facilitate his transfer from Sporting Lisbon to North London. This striking gesture highlights Gyökeres' commitment to don the red and white jersey, setting him apart in a world where footballers often prioritize financial gain over club loyalty.Arsenal's latest offer stands at €65 million upfront, with an additional €15 million in add-ons. Despite Sporting Lisbon's firm stance on maximizing the transfer fee, Gyökeres' determination to leave the club is evident as he refuses to participate in pre-season activities and declares his time at Sporting over.Andrea Berta, Arsenal's transfer chief, has flown to Lisbon to finalize the deal, aiming to secure Gyökeres as the club's second marquee signing of the summer, following Martin Zubimendi. With a proven track record of scoring 97 goals in two seasons, Gyökeres brings the aggressive and direct attacking style Arsenal needs.As Arsenal seeks to bolster its squad with potential additions like Nørgaard and Mosquera/Madueke, the acquisition of Gyökeres could mark a significant turning point in the club's summer transfer ambitions. Fans eagerly await the finalization of this deal, hoping it signifies a new era of success for the team.

Is Vic there? Patience Gooners!

In a stunning turn of events, Viktor Gyökeres has decided to join Arsenal, turning down offers from Manchester United and Juventus. The Swedish striker's decision comes after a successful stint at Sporting CP, where he showcased his goal-scoring prowess. With Arsenal prioritizing the acquisition of a top-class No.9 this summer, Gyökeres has emerged as the perfect fit. Known for his strength, sharpness, and keen eye for goal, the 27-year-old is set to lead the line for the Gunners. His impressive career trajectory, from playing in the Championship to becoming one of Europe's most lethal strikers, has made him a highly sought-after player. Arsenal fans can look forward to a prolific striker eager to make his mark in North London. As Gyökeres prepares to don the red and white, expectations are high for him to deliver the goals that could propel Arsenal to league glory.

Zubi Zubi Zoo!

In a surprising transfer twist, Arsenal has outmaneuvered Real Madrid to secure the signing of Martin Zubimendi. Despite having a £51 million release clause, the Gunners reportedly paid over the odds to prevent the talented midfielder from joining the Spanish giants.
Known for his admiration of Xabi Alonso, Zubimendi seemed destined for a move to the Bernabéu. However, Arsenal's manager, Mikel Arteta, has successfully convinced the Real Sociedad star that North London is the place to be for his football development.
Arteta expressed his excitement, praising Zubimendi's quality and football intelligence, believing he will be a key player for the team. With tactical awareness and technical skill, Zubimendi is set to elevate Arsenal's midfield to new heights.
Welcome to the Emirates, Martin. You've made a bold choice, and it promises to be a rewarding chapter in your career.

Watkins - give him to us, he’s worth it

As Arsenal circles Crystal Palace with a hefty £60m+ bid for Eberechi Eze, questions arise about the true value of the player. Eze's flair and finesse are undeniable, but is he worth the same as a prime Fabregas? Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins quietly boasts 19 non-penalty Premier League goals and 13 assists, nearly single-handedly pushing Aston Villa towards a Champions League spot. Yet, Arsenal hasn't made a serious move for him.Stats Don't LieWatkins leads with 22 goal contributions compared to Eze's 15. For a team aiming for the title, Arsenal needs end product, not just flair. Watkins delivers goals and assists, essential for a title-chasing squad.Tactical FitWith Arsenal's current lineup featuring Ødegaard, Rice, Havertz, Martinelli, and Saka, where does Eze fit? Watkins, however, provides a solution to the pressing need for a reliable No.9, with Gabriel Jesus's fitness issues and Kai Havertz's new role.Value for MoneyWhile Eze's price tag is inflated by release clauses and English tax, Watkins offers proven Premier League performance as a No.9. He is a big-game player, ready to start and deliver, making him the smarter investment.In a strategic move for depth, unpredictability, and title-winning goals, Arteta should prioritize Watkins. Eze might dazzle in a cup game, but Watkins could be the key to winning the league. Arsenal cannot afford to miss out on the right choice.