Arsenal Transfer News: Ilkay Gundogan Talks Revealed, Iker Casillas Bid Reported

Arsenal are said to have spoken to the family of Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan ahead of a potential transfer to the Emirates Stadium, as reported by SportBild (h/t Sport Witness).

Gundogan is likely to leave the Westfalenstadion during the summer, per Izzy Horsefield of the Express, with many European clubs now linked to his services. SportBild's report suggests Manchester United, Manchester City and Bayern Munich are concerned over his lengthy injury problems, while Arsenal and Atletico Madrid have taken a personal approach to negotiations, per Sport Witness:

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It's stated that Gundogan's family have been in talks with Arsenal about a potential transfer. SportBild say that Arsenal and Atletico Madrid have 'already negotiated' with the Gundogan family.

It had been claimed previously by Bild that Gundogan's cousin had contacted Atletico and asked if they wanted to buy the midfielder, not getting a great response. It's not explained if it's those kind of talks SportBild are referring to or something more concrete.

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger should perhaps be the most wary of signing an injury-prone midfielder, having spent much of his reign dealing with problems to key individuals. This campaign, stars such as Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere and Mikel Arteta have missed lengthy playing time due to consistent niggles.

Gundogan's passing style and quality on the ball makes him a perfect fit for the Gunners. However, Wenger should prioritise landing a tall, physical defensive midfield type.

Francis Coquelin's emergence has certainly slowed the need to spend huge funds on a combative star, but he needs competition for this role. Arsenal's lack of height through the centre could certainly use a powerful alternative, despite Coquelin's impressive mobility. Gundogan would undoubtedly slot right into the north London side's passing game, but he cannot be considered essential.

Arsenal Make Offer for Casillas?

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Spanish publication Fichajes (h/t Jamie Sanderson of the Metro) reports that Wenger has "made an offer to sign Real Madrid's Iker Casillas at the end of the season." The loyal goalkeeper continues to struggle for form at the Bernabeu and will have his contract terminated when the summer arrives, according to Sanderson.

The aforementioned article reports that Casillas "has offers from several clubs all over the world but a switch to Arsenal is looking most likely."

Casillas recently reacted angrily to being jeered by Madrid fans, something Sky Sports expert Guillem Balague believes is a "turning point" in the Spaniard's career.

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He spoke to Revista de La Liga, per Sky Sports: "It's the first time that Iker Casillas, who should be an idol to this club after 18 years in the first team, has actually turned against his own fans," said Balague. "Yes, he thought all this for a long while because he heard it from his spokespeople, but it's the first time we've seen that."

Such incidents may ramp up Arsenal's reported interest. B/R UK's James McNicholas believes the side have an excellent chance of Premier League success if they sign the right players during the summer:

Arsenal's 10-game unbeaten run came to an end against Swansea City on Monday, a timely reminder that Wenger's side have plenty of work to do if they're to close the gap on Chelsea next season. World-class signings are needed to improve a squad which is already packed with talent.

Both Gundogan and Casillas would be marked as major signings, particularly if Arsenal pip other clubs to their signatures. They would not only help strengthen the squad, but it can add proven quality when fully fit and in-form.