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Arsenal Jamal Musiala transfer truth clear as ruthless North London Derby reality hits

Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala
-Credit: (Image: Photo by Sebastian El-Saqqa - firo sportphoto/Getty Images)


Mikel Arteta and Arsenal tasted that familiar winning feeling on Sunday as they saw off the challenge of bitter rivals, Tottenham Hotspur. Gabriel's second-half header ensured that the Gunners returned to winning ways as the Premier League returned following the international break.

It marks the beginning of an important week in the early part of Arsenal's campaign in both England's top-flight and Europe. Already, Arteta has been tied down to a new three-year deal but this week marks the first Champions League encounter against reigning Europa League holders Atalanta before facing a trip to the champions, Manchester City.

Declan Rice will provide a boost as he returns to the squad, following suspension. But there will be fresh question marks over injuries as Martin Odegaard was left out for the win, while Bukayo Saka was forced off midway through the second-half.

Arsenal mooted in Musiala race

Arsenal are reportedly among the Premier League clubs interested in Bayern Munich star Jamal Musiala. According to the Express, City are front-runners for the German international, should he leave for £120million.

The Gunners are among a host of top-flight names to be mooted with supposed interest, including Liverpool and Manchester United while Real Madrid are also said to be in contention.

Musiala has two years remaining on his contract and will face intense speculation next summer, as he will face the possibility of leaving the Allianz Arena on a free transfer, upon the expiry of his deal - should it not be extended.

READ MORE: Every word Mikel Arteta said on Tottenham win, Bukayo Saka injury and Gabriel display

READ MORE: Gabriel steps up and Bukayo Saka shows quality

football.london says: "It is no surprise to see Jamal Musiala courting such attention. He has quickly rose to the fore as one of the most exciting prospects in world football, following his displays for Bayern and Germany.

"With two years remaining on his contract, his price will be astronomical as time ticks for Vincent Kompany's side and recouping a fee for the highly-rated playmaker. However, the threat of Profit and Sustainability, unless the margins are way clear, poses a difficult challenge for clubs in the Premier League to make the world record move."

Paul Merson's ruthless jibe as reality hits for Spurs

Arsenal icon Paul Merson aimed a ruthless dig at the Gunners' wounded neighbours following the 1-0 win. He was in the studio for Sky Sports as he provided analysis for the North London Derby before watching Newcastle United come from behind to beat Wolves.

Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou was spiky in his assessment following the defeat as he issued a strong defence to claims that Arsenal's rivals will once again suffer a campaign without silverware. He said: "Yeah, absolutely. Am I going to answer the question or are you going to keep asking it?

"No, absolutely. I'll correct myself. I don't usually win things, I always win things in my second year. Nothing has changed. I don't say things unless I believe them."

Merson was ruthless in his reflection, he added: "I like Ange, I like him. But I've got more chance of winning Strictly (Come Dancing)."

football.london says: "Arsenal fans will be waltzing into work on Monday morning with a spring in their step, looking to rub the victory in their rivals' faces. While the fixtures have been kind to avoid a late-season grudge match away from home across North London, their focus will well and truly be on usurping City.

"They have to show their title credentials at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, a place many believed they lost the title race last year. Even with the injuries and suspensions, Arsenal were professional in their performance and have momentum to build off next weekend. Good luck on Strictly, Merse."