Coral’s Rumour Reel: Arsenal gunning for Pedro’s summer signature

Having secured the signing of Alexis Sanchez last summer from Barcelona, Arsenal could soon make another Nou Camp purchase as they have reportedly opened talks with Spain international winger Pedro. The 27-year-old is high on the Gunners’ target list this summer, with the Catalan wideman keen on a switch in order to gain regular first-team action.

Arsene Wenger’s London outfit will also pursue a mammoth move for Juventus midfielder Arturo Vidal, with Serie A champions now reportedly open to selling their Chile international, who recently lifted his country’s first ever Copa America crown. Arsenal are hoping to challenge for the title next season and are 9/2 with Coral to win the Premier League.

Elsewhere in the capital, Tottenham have been told that they must pay up to £18m if they want to land 21-year-old Belgium forward Yannick Ferreira Carrasco from Monaco this year. Although, Spurs may be hit by legal action from Southampton over their efforts to sign Toby Alderweireld from Atletico Madrid, with the Londoners having agreed an £11.5m fee for the former Saints loan star.

Elsewhere, Newcastle United are closing in on their first signing of the summer under Steve McClaren, with PSV midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum reportedly soon to arrive at St James’ Park. The 24-year-old Netherlands international was left out of his club’s squad for a recent pre-season friendly, leading to further speculation.

The Magpies are also confident of agreeing a deal for Charlie Austin, but QPR are unwilling to let their star striker depart for any less than £15m. Such a price-tag could put off the Toon, though, due to the England international’s poor injury record at Loftus Road.

QPR have also rejected a £7m bid Matt Phillips from West Bromwich Albion, with the R’s holding out for at least £10m for his services. Tony Pulis’ Baggies are 11/4 to secure a top 10 finish next season.

Newcastle’s close rivals Sunderland are aiming to boost their squad their summer as well, and could soon see the arrival of Zenit St Petersburg’s Nicolas Lombaerts, with the 30-year-old Belgium defender possibly set to be joined by winger Stewart Downing at the Stadium of Light.

And finally, Manchester United are battling it out with top-flight champions Chelsea for the capturing of Stoke City stopper Asmir Begovic, as a potential replacement for Real Madrid target David de Gea.