Medical Completed: Arsenal very close to announce first summer transfer signing as tricky Playmaker completes medical to join the Gunners- Deal signed already and the transfer will be announced today
Arsenal are reportedly on the verge of completing a deal to sign a teenage sensation from the Belgian Pro League.
The Gunners are moving quickly to sign Greek playmaker Konstantinos Karetsas from KRC Genk, with Premier League rivals also in hot pursuit
It comes amid what many are considering to be a crucial summer for Mikel Arteta’s side, who have become accustomed to finishing second in the league. In a bid to finally overcome this hurdle, Arsenal are chasing a superstar striker – either Viktor Gyokeres or Benjamin Sesko – and a new defensive midfielder, although talks to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad have stalled.
Now, in a surprise move, Arsenal are said to be in advanced talks with Genk for 17-year-old Karetsas, one of Europe’s most highly rated young midfielders. According to Greek outlet AMNA, the deal is close to being finalized for a fee that could reach £38m including bonuses, making him the most expensive Greek footballer ever.
Karetsas, who became Greece’s youngest-ever goalscorer earlier this year, has attracted interest from a host of European giants, including Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle, Chelsea, PSG, and Bayern Munich. But Arsenal have reportedly surged ahead in the race.
A key factor in the deal is Arsenal’s willingness to loan the teenager back to Genk for the 2026/27 season to ensure regular first-team minutes – a condition seen as key in sealing the deal.
If completed, Karetsas would join as a long-term investment, with Arsenal planning to integrate him gradually into Arteta’s squad while ensuring his development continues in a comfortable environment.
