Arsenal transfer news: Ryan Fraser yet to accept contract offer from Bournemouth
Fraser's current contract expires in 2020 and Arsenal are closely monitoring the situation
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Your support makes all the difference.Ryan Fraser has not accepted a long-term contract offer from Bournemouth following interest from Arsenal.
The Independent reported that Arsenal are confident of winning a bidding war for the Scottish winger, who’s contract expires in 2020.
Bournemouth remain hopeful of holding onto Fraser, but are understood to want at least £30m to tempt them into letting him leave, especially as Aberdeen are owed around 20 per cent of the transfer free agreed when he joined the then League One side in 2013.
The winger enjoyed a fine season under Eddie Howe at Bournemouth, racking up 14 assists in the Premier League – only former Chelsea forward Eden Hazard managed more.
Fraser told the club in September to pause negotiations on a new deal so that he could concentrate on his football and was flattered by Arsenal’s interest. “It was very nice, it means you’re doing something right,” he said in April.
The south-coast club remain confident of starting the new season with Fraser in their team, but it is no secret that Unai Emery is after a wide player and is a fan of the 25-year-old.
Bournemouth chief executive, Neill Blake, clarified the club’s position on the matter in a lengthy statement and confirmed the contact offer is on the table.
“Much has been written and spoken about the future of Ryan Fraser, as his contract with AFC Bournemouth heads into its final 12 months.
“As is the club’s policy, details regarding contract negotiations or transfer activity are kept confidential and do not enter the public domain.
“However, following some recent reports I felt it was imperative to speak publicly and provide balanced clarity on the situation.
“The offer of a new long-term contract has been on the table for Ryan for some time.
“In September 2018, at the request of Ryan’s representative, negotiations were paused to allow the player to focus entirely on his football.
“He went on to have an outstanding season, with seven goals and 13 assists helping the club secure a fifth successive season of Premier League football.
“During that time, I have been – and continue to be – in regular dialogue with Ryan’s representative, and have made it clear to both him and the player that our contract offer remains on the table.
“Quite simply, Ryan is a fantastic player and an integral part of our squad. We look forward to welcoming Ryan back to us next month after a well-earned break, upon which he can focus on having another standout season for AFC Bournemouth.”
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