Arsenal news LIVE: Samuel Umtiti transfer decision, midfielder requests emergency talks

Arsenal news LIVE updates: All the latest news and gossip from the Emirates

Monday, April 15

• Arsenal look set to miss out on Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti

• Juventus are close to signing the Barcelona centre-back

• Arsenal loanee Denis Suarez is set to hold talks with Unai Emery

• Arsenal have received a boost in their hunt for Lille ace Nicolas Pepe

Samuel Umtiti transfer

Arsenal look set to miss out on Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti.

That’s according to Spanish newspaper Diario AS, who claim Juventus are close to signing the centre-back.

The French international is widely expected to leave the Nou Camp this summer having fallen behind Clement Lenglet and Gerard Pique in the pecking order.

And Arsenal’s Unai Emery has spoken about the 25-year-old, labelling him a ‘great player’ before commenting on the number of French players he’s managed throughout his career.

But Diario AS claim the Gunners will lose their target to Juventus, who are set to snatch his signature.

Denis Suarez emergency talks

Arsenal loanee Denis Suarez is set to hold talks with Unai Emery in the next 24 hours.

Suarez, 25, joined the Gunners from Barcelona on a loan in January but has failed to start a single game in all competitions.

He’s reportedly been struggling with a groin problem in recent weeks, which has hindered his progress in training.

The Daily Mail claim Arsenal’s medical team have suggested Suarez reduces his load in training in a bid to ease problem.

And it is claimed he will discuss his training schedule with Emery.

It is reportedly feared Suarez has suffered a sports hernia injury but he wants to see if a light workload can resolve the inflammation.

Nicolas Pepe sale

Arsenal have received a boost in their hunt for Lille ace Nicolas Pepe with chairman of the French club Gerard Lopez confirming the forward will be sold this summer.

It’s believed Lille want around €50million (£43m) for the 23-year-old, and Lopez’s comments suggest clubs have already spoken to the Ligue 1 side over a possible transfer.

“It is certain, he will leave,” Lopez said.

“He has moved into a price range that we can not afford anymore. There is a career choice to make for him, I think he will have the choice.”