Arsenal ‘rejected’ four transfer offers as Bukayo Saka handed brilliant new role

Unlike some of their rivals, Arsenal have no real reason to indulge in the opportunity presented by the various open transfer windows across the world. Albeit, mainly Chelsea and Manchester United are desperate to offload stars that Mikel Arteta simply doesn’t have, there is no panic in place.

Even the frustrating nature of drawing 1-1 with Brighton before the international break isn’t enough to get things squeaking after the end of the summer windows for most countries in Europe. This is the sign of a well-run club.

There is a sense of calm at Arsenal, and that is supported by a group of decision-makers who are happy enough to act on instinct when the chance arises as well (see: Raheem Sterling). So, for the next three months until we do this all again in January, Arsenal are well set.

Kiwior transfer rejected

Arsenal stopped Jakub Kiwior from leaving the club, turning down interest from at least four Italian teams over the summer. Despite signing Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna – who were one of the sides looking to buy him – Kiwior remained in North London throughout.

The Polish defender is now behind Calafiori on the left as well as Oleksandr Zinchenko, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and the first-choice centre-back pairing of Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba. Inter were also interested in Kiwior, with Napoli linked as well.

Fiorentina are said to have enquired as well with the expectation that Arsenal would be open to selling Kiwior. Instead of looking to cash in, Arteta has seen his versatile defender remain.

football.london says: This is a strange one. Kiwior leaving made a lot of sense after Calafiori arrived and it wasn’t exactly a high bar for a price either.

He’s been impressive enough since being signed 18 months ago and would surely bring in a profit, even if only small. It feels very safe to keep him around to act as cover for two positions already well-stocked.

Arteta probably did need more senior players in the squad because the current group does look slightly light, but whether or not there is much to be gained from having Kiwior is debatable.

Saka reward

Bukayo Saka has been added to England’s ‘unofficial leadership group’ after playing a big role at Euro 2024. The Arsenal academy graduate was alongside Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, teammate Declan Rice, and Kyle Walker, by Gareth Southgate.

According to the Mirror, it went under the radar just what sort of impact Saka was having. Saka is now expected to continue to act as a bridge between players and coaches for Lee Carsley with the dynamic not likely to change.

Saka’s influence with England has continued to rise since his debut in 2020. He started all of the seven matches in Germany earlier this year despite competition from the in-form Cole Palmer. Phil Foden was moved from his favoured position as well with Saka preferred on the right.