Arsenal take first step towards huge West Ham raid, as Bernd Leno begins talks with London rival

Arsenal have contacted the representatives of West Ham ace Jarrod Bowen, while goalkeeper Bernd Leno is in talks over a move to another London side, per multiple reports.

The Gunners’ outlook for the summer window was made more difficult than it should’ve been. Arsenal were pipped to fourth spot by Tottenham, something that could have a lasting impact on who they are and aren’t able to sign this summer.

Indeed, the latest on Youri Tielemans suggested the Leicester midfielder has dropped his UCL demand. While that’s good news for Arsenal, the lack of Champions League football may wind up scuppering their move for Gabriel Jesus.

Mikel Arteta is seeking at least two new faces to add firepower to his depleted forward line.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang was never replaced in January after top target Dusan Vlahovic chose Juventus. Alexandre Lacazette’s exit was also recently confirmed with the Frenchman wasting little time before re-joining Lyon.

And with Tottenham reportedly in advanced negotiations with Richarlison, the onus is on Arsenal to ensure they’re not left behind.

Now, the Beautiful Game Podcast has claimed Arsenal have opened talks with the representatives of Jarrod Bowen.

The West Ham flyer, 25, enjoyed a break-out season last year, plundering 18 goals and 13 assists across all competitions.

Bowen scooped the West Ham Players’ Player of the Year award ahead of Declan Rice and received his maiden England call-up for the Nations League clashes.

Details beyond Arsenal’s initial approach are thin on the ground, suggesting any potential move is in its infancy. However, the tweet that revealed the news did add Bowen is on Arsenal’s shortlist of winger targets that also includes Raphinha.

The Leeds ace was first linked with