As the summer transfer window begins to heat up, Arsenal have made a clear statement of intent by rejecting an approach for one of their prized assets valued at £42 million. While the Gunners remain firm in holding onto their key talents, they have simultaneously greenlit the departure of another squad member, underlining Mikel Arteta’s strategic reshuffling ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Arsenal Say No to Offers for Takehiro Tomiyasu
According to close sources within the club, Arsenal recently turned down a formal approach for Japanese international Takehiro Tomiyasu, who is reportedly valued around £42 million by the North London club. The versatile defender, who can operate both as a full-back and a center-back, has become a crucial part of Arteta’s system when fit. His ability to plug in across the backline has made him a fan favorite and a trusted figure in Arsenal’s increasingly fluid defensive setup.
The identity of the club that made the bid hasn’t been officially revealed, but speculation suggests interest from Serie A, particularly from AC Milan and Napoli, both of whom are looking to strengthen their defensive options with a player of Tomiyasu’s reliability and tactical flexibility.
However, Arsenal swiftly rebuffed the offer, with Arteta reportedly insisting that the 25-year-old is not for sale. This move signals the club’s desire to retain depth and quality across all areas, especially considering the injury issues that plagued their backline at various stages last season. With Champions League football once again on the horizon, Arsenal are clearly unwilling to part with players who can provide consistent and high-level cover.
Tomiyasu, who joined Arsenal from Bologna in 2021 for a fee of around £16 million, has seen his value skyrocket thanks to his solid performances in both domestic and European competitions. While not always a guaranteed starter due to the rise of Ben White and the emergence of Jakub Kiwior, Tomiyasu remains a trusted member of the squad, capable of influencing matches from multiple positions.
Nuno Tavares Heads for Exit
While Tomiyasu stays put, another Arsenal full-back is set to depart. Portuguese defender Nuno Tavares has been given the green light to leave the Emirates this summer, with reports indicating that a permanent move is in the works following two underwhelming loan spells at Marseille and Nottingham Forest.
Tavares, who joined Arsenal from Benfica in 2021, showed early promise with his attacking runs and physical presence on the left flank. However, inconsistency and defensive frailties saw him fall out of favor under Arteta. After a mixed campaign in France where he impressed going forward but remained error-prone at the back, his loan stint at Nottingham Forest was marred by limited game time and recurring fitness issues.
Now 24, Tavares is eager to reignite his career with regular first-team football. Reports suggest that several clubs in France, Italy, and Turkey are monitoring his situation, with Galatasaray reportedly leading the race for his signature. Arsenal are believed to be willing to accept a fee in the region of £8–10 million, with a sell-on clause potentially included in any deal.
Arteta’s Tactical Evolution
Arsenal’s summer transfer policy thus far reflects Mikel Arteta’s focus on cohesion, tactical flexibility, and character over raw talent alone. The decision to keep Tomiyasu while offloading Tavares is telling: the former brings defensive discipline, positional awareness, and adaptability—traits that Arteta values immensely—while the latter, despite his natural athleticism, has struggled to adapt to the demands of high-stakes Premier League football.
With Jurrien Timber returning from injury, Kieran Tierney expected to come back from his loan spell at Real Sociedad, and Oleksandr Zinchenko remaining a central figure at left-back, Arsenal believe they have sufficient cover in the wide defensive areas. Tavares’ exit, therefore, frees up space and wages while clearing the path for younger prospects or a more suitable signing.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
This summer is shaping up to be crucial for the Gunners, who are aiming to mount another serious challenge for the Premier League title and advance deeper into the Champions League. While the club is reportedly targeting reinforcements in midfield and attack, they are equally determined to keep the core of their squad intact.
Rejecting bids for key players like Tomiyasu sends a strong message to both fans and potential suitors: Arsenal are no longer a selling club, but a side intent on competing at the very highest level.
With several weeks remaining in the transfer window, more activity—both arrivals and departures—is expected. But one thing is clear: Arsenal’s ambition is matched by a growing sense of stability, and that could make all the difference in their
quest for silverware next season.
