Arsenal latest: Cesc Fabregas clause comes to light as Erling Haaland's future clarified

Arsenal are reportedly in the market for a new striker in 2027, with Erling Haaland's name being mentioned in transfer rumours

Arsenal's preparations for the return of Premier League action come with two immediate priorities: assessing their international players' fitness and responding to their first setback of the season. Leeds United visit the Emirates Stadium on October 10, when Mikel Arteta 's side will look to put their 3-0 defeat at Brighton behind them.

That result interrupted an otherwise impressive start to the defence of their first league title in 22 years. Seven straight wins across four competitions had suggested Arsenal were well placed to build on last season's success, despite failing to secure the world-class striker they targeted in the summer.

The extended international break hands Arteta three weeks between fixtures to assess the Brighton mauling, although events away from north London have brought fresh concerns. Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz have both encountered injury issues with their national teams, leaving Arsenal hoping to avoid further complications over the remaining international games.

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Secret Cesc Fabregas clause

Cesc Fabregas ' contract at Como reportedly features a clause that would permit him to join one of his former clubs, including Arsenal, as manager. Arteta is set to sign a new deal which will extend his tenure beyond a decade as Gunners boss, having initially been appointed as head coach in December 2019.

There is currently no suggestion that Arteta or Arsenal wish to part ways in the near future, but the success of his fellow Spaniard Fabregas with Italian club Como have sparked some rumours that the ex-Arsenal midfielder might be considered as a potential replacement when Arteta eventually leaves.

Fabregas is believed to be content at Como and has already rejected approaches from several clubs, including Bayer Leverkusen, Inter Milan and Roma. The 39-year-old is said to be in no rush to progress to the next stage of his managerial journey.

However, Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio claims a release clause in Fabregas’ deal would allow him to depart for his previous clubs: Arsenal, Chelsea and Barcelona, should they express an interest. Fabregas openly praised Arsenal's vision and project following the 1-1 pre-season draw at the Emirates Stadium.

Erling Haaland’s future clarified

Arsenal are reportedly not pursuing a deal for Erling Haaland, with the striker remaining firmly committed to Manchester City for the foreseeable future. Speculation over Haaland's long-term plans has intensified following City's guilty verdict on 114 Premier League financial breaches, with an appeal still pending.

Since the protracted financial case emerged several years ago, the club have always stated they have committed no wrongdoing. Yet they now face the possibility of substantial sanctions, including fines and a points deduction, which could lead to key players leaving.

Arsenal have featured in speculation online as a potential destination for Haaland, given they are expected to remain active in pursuing a striker heading into 2027. The Gunners also have the finances to sign almost anyone in the game, as shown by their pursuit of Vinicius Junior in the summer, meaning the Norwegian's salary would pose no obstacle.

Nevertheless, TEAMtalk reports there has been no communication between Arsenal and the forward thus far, according to the 26-year-old's representatives, as he focuses on the remainder of his campaign with the Etihad outfit.