Arsenal ahead of ‘several’ UK clubs in hunt for £50m-plus star Edu target

Edmond Tapsoba, Max Kruse Bayer Leverkusen v Union Berlin May 2021

Arsenal are currently the favourites to sign Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba ahead of ‘several’ UK clubs, according to reports.

The Gunners are facing a crucial summer transfer window after a largely disappointing season. Boss Mikel Arteta faced calls to get the sack by December, but he then enjoyed a turnaround. Despite their form somewhat improving though, Arsenal could only muster an eighth-placed finish.

As a result, while transfers will be vital to progress, their lack of funds and European football will make deals harder.

Nevertheless, SportItalia journalist Gianluigi Longari has claimed that the Gunners are showing ‘strong interest’ in Tapsoba.

In addition, he added that Arsenal are currently the ‘favourites’ to sign the 22-year-old.

Meanwhile, Sport1 reporter Patrick Berger has offered more insight on the transfer chase (via Sport Witness).

He wrote on Twitter that ‘several’ UK clubs, including Arsenal, are in the hunt for Tapsoba. The centre-back reportedly has no release clause in his contract, which runs until in the summer of 2026.

However, Leverkusen have told the parties showing interest that they will open talks if clubs are willing to pay €60million (£52million).

Indeed, they do not want to sell the player who they tied down to a new deal in December, but are willing to compromise if they can get a strong profit on their January 2020 signing.

May 26 Transfer Chatter - Willian wants Chelsea return, Bale's summer plans and three clubs chasing Edouard.

May 26 Transfer Chatter - Willian wants Chelsea return, Bale's summer plans and three clubs chasing Edouard.

Arsenal's Willian wants to return to Chelsea and could depend on one sale, Gareth Bale refuses to confirm his plans after the European championships and three Premier League clubs are chasing Celtic's Odsonne Edouard.

Burkina Faso international Tapsoba moved to the Bundesliga from Vitoria Guimaraes and went straight into the team for the second half of last term.

This campaign, meanwhile, he has had a similar impact, making 31 league outings and 39 overall.

Arsenal could well change around their defensive options this summer; centre-back David Luiz and right-back Hector Bellerin could both leave.

Arsenal setback in transfer hunt

Eduardo Camavinga Rennes v Dijon April 2021

Meanwhile, Arsenal target Eduardo Camavinga has reportedly decided to snub transfer interest from the Gunners.

The 18-year-old is on a fantastic trajectory and has become one of Europe’s most exciting teenagers.

However, he reportedly has his ideal destination in mind as he plans to leave Rennes.

READ MORE: Frenchman with ‘exorbitant’ transfer wish makes decision over Arsenal link