After winning the Premier League, capping a seven-year journey to greatness, Mikel Arteta has immediately shifted focus from celebrations to the next objective: retaining the trophy next season.
Arsenal were handed the title on a silver platter after Manchester City failed to beat Champions League contenders Bournemouth. However, the triumph came at the end of a season built on a strong defensive structure that has been the catalyst for the Gunners' winning formula.
Now, this base is expected to be strengthened even further, as Arteta is looking to bring in a mobile defensive midfielder who would play alongside Declan Rice and it is reported that the Arsenal coach has already found the name he wants.
After struggling to cover for Martin Zubimendi's absences and form issues, as well as using Mikel Merino in makeshift roles, Arteta is said to have identified Sandro Tonali as a proven Premier League profile and an ideal fit for the squad.
Tonali is currently under contract with Newcastle, but Italian media reports that the midfielder is unhappy in the north-east of England and wants to return to a team playing in the Champions League.
Newcastle could also reportedly be forced to sell in the summer after failing to secure revenue through qualification for European competitions.
In this context, the figure of £60 million mentioned for Tonali could serve the club to create space for reinvestment.
According to TuttoJuve , Arsenal are currently leading the race. The Italian outlet claims that Juventus have been eliminated, while Tonali is enjoying his football in England.
The report adds that Arteta is a big admirer of Tonali's "intensity and leadership" and believes he would fit right in with such a competitive squad .