Transfer Talk: Italy star Locatelli is the Man for Arteta's Gunners

Arsenal have tabled an official bid for Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli.

In an interview with Sky in Italy, the Serie A side’s sporting director Giovanni Carnevali was quizzed over interest from Juventus in Locatelli, who netted twice in Italy’s 3-0 win over Switzerland in the group stage at Euro 2020. 

And although Carnevali confirmed ongoing talks between the two sides, he also revealed the Gunners had placed themselves at the front of the queue for the 23-year-old’s services.

He said: "Juventus are the only Italian club we talked to about Locatelli. We met last week with [Juventus sporting director] Federico Cherubini.

"There is interest from their side, we haven't explored all the terms and evaluations, but we have an excellent relationship with Juventus so we will continue these talks.

"It's true other clubs from abroad are interested. Arsenal are one and they are ahead of everyone else because they tabled the only concrete offer we have received so far."

It is expected to be a busy window at the Emirates after Mikel Arteta’s men finished a disappointing eighth for a second consecutive Premier League season.

The North Londoners have already been linked with Brighton defender Ben White and Benfica left-back Nuno Tavares, with both deals said to be close.

Rebuild for Rafa?

New Everton boss Rafa Benitez could have a summer rebuild on his hands with a trio of Toffees stars linked with moves away from Goodison Park.

The Sun say Dominic Calvert-Lewin has emerged as a top target for Manchester United, who have all but secured the signature of his England team-mate Jadon Sancho from Borussia Dortmund.

It is thought United view Calvert-Lewin, 24, as a perfect addition after he netted 21 goals in 39 appearances last term — and they are hoping to take advantage of an unsettling period on the blue half of Merseyside.

James Rodriguez is one man who certainly looks ready to depart following Benitez’s arrival, with a host of clubs keen on the Colombian.

AC Milan have previously been linked but the 29-year-old is not short of potential suitors and his representatives expect a move to happen in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile, Richarlison is another player who shared a strong relationship with former Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti.

No firm offers have been received but the Brazilian is unlikely to be short of options should he decide to move on. 

Benitez, 61, was controversially revealed as Everton's new manager yesterday, penning an initial three-year deal at Goodison Park.

Dion in demand

Newcastle are looking to hijack Sunderland's bid to land Wolves defender Dion Sanderson.

Sanderson, 21, impressed on loan at the Stadium of Light last term before suffering a season-ending injury and the Black Cats recently failed with a £1m bid to sign him on a permanent basis.

Now the Magpies are on the scene and have lodged an initial offer of £1.5m, which is also set to be rejected.

But the Daily Mail claim the Midlands outfit would considering selling at £2m, making a move a distinct possibility.

Should both sides meet the asking price, it will be a case of whether Sanderson prefers the idea of regular football at a lower level or the prospect of breaking through at St James’ Park.