Arsenal and Bayern fighting for 'one of most talented' players in Europe as World Cup looms

Arsenal are reportedly set to battle Bayern Munich for the transfer of a highly rated Bundesliga star.

Just days after parading the Premier League title around the streets of north London, Arteta and Arsenal are already looking to improve their squad ahead of next term.

Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez is among the names linked with a move to the Emirates, although the Gunners face competition from Barcelona for the player's signature.

Meanwhile, as reported by The Athletic, Arsenal may also be up against Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich as both clubs are pursuing Germany international Nathaniel Brown.

The 22-year-old left-back, who was included in Julian Nagelsmann's 26-man squad for the World Cup, came through the ranks at Nurnberg before joining Eintracht Frankfurt in 2024.

The Germany boss has previously described Brown as "one of the most talented left-backs around".

Since joining Frankfurt, Brown has made 75 appearances for the Bundesliga side, producing seven goals and 13 assists, which has earned him four caps for his country.

Brown is contracted to Frankfurt until 2030, with the club valuing him between the £50 million-£60 million mark.

The full-back boasted impressive statistics last term, winning more tackles than any other Bundesliga player with 81, while also being capable of creating chances for his team-mates in the final third.

Despite being a left-back, he also played almost half of his matches as a left midfielder last term, which will no doubt add to his appeal to Arsenal.

If he were to join Arsenal, he would compete with Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori for a spot in Arteta's starting XI.

Arsenal are also interested in Newcastle right-back Tino Livramento, as well as his fellow full-back Ivan Fresnada. Real Madrid youngster Victor Valdepensa is also attracting the Gunners' attention ahead of the transfer window's opening on June 15.

While Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba are without doubt Arsenal's first-choice centre-backs, the club are keen to add to their ranks in the position, with RB Leipzig's Castello Lukeba among those Arsenal are keeping tabs on.

What has Brown said about his future?

Brown was asked about the transfer rumours by reporters last week, with the player insisting he was focused on the upcoming World Cup rather than next season.

"Of course I read that too, but I want to focus on the World Cup right now," Brown said. "I'll see what comes after that. But right now my full focus is on the World Cup. I feel great, also in the city, I have friends there. I've really settled in, I'm really enjoying it."