Arsenal handed major Jamie Gittens transfer boost as £83m star 'makes dressing room announcement'

Arsenal are interested in a move for Jamie Gittens and said to be 'ahead of the game' in the race for the talented Borussia Dortmund forward, it has been claimed.

Reading-born Gittens, 20, has impressed for Dortmund this season, scoring 12 goals and adding five assists in 46 matches across all competitions. His form has increased speculation that he could leave Dortmund in the summer, with Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea eyeing up a move.

Although his destination hasn't been announced, Gittens has made it clear that he would like to depart Dortmund, according to Sky Sports, via Ruhr Nachrichten. It's added that he has 'already announced' his exit in the dressing room, and interested parties in England are plotting a summer transfer.

Initial discussions have taken place between Chelsea and Gittens' management as the Blues look to secure a deal. However, Gittens is said to prefer a move to Arsenal instead, as the prospects for 'orderly conditions' and playing time are far more secure with the Gunners than the 'chaotically managed' Blues.

Gittens, who is predominately a left winger but can also play as the No.10 and on the right, is a quick forward and one that likes to dribble, cut inside, and get a shot off.

He averages 2.4 dribbles per-game and also has a knack of winning fouls, drawing the attention of his opponents with his fast movements. Alongside his, Gittens' end product is improving, having scored more goals this season than he did in his first two years as a professional combined.

There is no doubt that Gittens could be an astute addition for suitors, though Dortmund want to keep hold of their star attacker and would only contemplate parting ways if they receive an offer in the region of £83million, according to BILD. Dortmund paid just £76,654 in training compensation to Manchester City for Gittens in 2020.

If Arsenal signed Gittens, he would strengthen their options in attack and provide much-needed competition for Gabriel Martinelli, whose form has been inconsistent. He can also be used as a back-up for Martin Odegaard, too, with the Norway international not at his flying best in recent months.

The Gunners are expected to have a busy summer as they aim to strengthen their squad in preparation for another crack at the Premier League title. Arteta's men are on course to finish second for the third successive season, with new sporting director Andrea Berta looking to get players in to bridge that gap.