James Maddison’s Arsenal verdict as Arteta ‘reaches wage agreement’ with target

James Maddison is reportedly 'open' to a move to Arsenal with the club also meeting Tammy Abraham's wage demands.

The two Premier League stars are at the top of Mikel Arteta's shortlist this summer as he looks for a creative midfielder and a striker to help rebuild the Gunners squad.

The North London club's number one priority is to sign a player in the mould of a no.10 and after permanent deals for Martin Odegaard, who returned to Real Madrid following his loan spell at Arsenal, and Emi Buendia, who joined Aston Villa, didn't materialise – Maddison has emerged as their preferred choice.

Leicester have slapped a £60million price tag on their prized asset, but their asking price has almost halved since a year ago as Maddison's form dipped following an injury-hit season.

Mikel Arteta is said to be a huge admirer of the England international and is willing to offer several fringe players as makeweights to get the deal over the line.

And 90min.com are reporting that the 24-year-old is 'open' to leaving the King Power Stadium this summer and is particularly keen on a switch to Arsenal.

Chelsea striker Abraham is another target for the Gunners as Thomas Tuchel has deemed the Englishman surplus to requirements despite being a regular under Frank Lampard earlier in the season.

Arteta would like to add attacking reinforcements with the club looking to offload Alexandre Lacazette.

And Arsenal are 'ready to meet' Abraham's wage demands, according to the Express.

The 23-year-old is on an £80,000-a-week salary at Stamford Bridge, but wants a £125,000 wage if he is to make the move to Chelsea's London rivals.

But it's claimed that Arsenal are willing to offer him that pay increase as talks are ongoing between both parties.

Chelsea are asking for £40m for Abraham as they look to raise funds to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar Erling Haaland who is valued at £150m.

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