Arsenal target Tottenham academy star Upson as £100m Tonali race heats up

Arsenal are moving on two transfer fronts this summer, targeting Tottenham Hotspur’s academy defender Elijah Upson on a free transfer while monitoring the situation of Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, who is valued at up to £100 million.

Arsenal eye Tottenham’s Elijah Upson

Upson, an England U18 international, is set to leave Spurs when his contract expires and Arsenal have identified him as a priority academy signing, according to The Athletic. The 18-year-old captained Tottenham’s U18 side on multiple occasions last season, making 23 appearances across all competitions.

The move carries a notable family dimension: Upson is the son of former Arsenal defender Matthew Upson, who spent five-and-a-half years at the club, made 57 appearances, and won the Premier League title with the Gunners in 2002. Arsenal’s interest in the younger Upson follows their pursuit of Leicester City prospect Jeremy Monga, underlining a broader strategy to recruit top young talent.

Tonali race intensifies with Spurs involvement

On the senior transfer front, Tottenham have entered the running for Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali, complicating Arsenal’s own reported interest in the Italy international. The Times reports that Spurs have held talks with Tonali’s representatives over a potential move to Roberto De Zerbi’s side.

Newcastle value the 26-year-old at up to £100 million, and Tonali has reportedly been offered to several clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. Newcastle have already raised funds this window after Anthony Gordon completed his move to Barcelona, though the club appear intent on commanding a significant fee for Tonali.

Arsenal enter the window as reigning Premier League champions, with manager Mikel Arteta looking to strengthen a squad that has also been linked with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers and Morocco teenager Ayyoub Bouaddi.