Further down the pitch, Arsenal need to decide on a No 6 for the future. Thomas Partey, who turns 32 in the summer, and Jorginho, 33, are both into the final six months of their contracts. While Declan Rice can play as a No 6, his talents are better utilised as the left No 8 in Mikel Arteta’s system.

Arsenal are expected to win the competitive race to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with a £51m deal for next summer set to be agreed according to a report. Zubimendi has been the subject of extensive interest for years.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot says Trent Alexander-Arnold is fully committed to the club amid interest in the England right back from Real Madrid.