da cassino： Arsenal have ended their interest in Chelsea's Fran Kirby after holding initial talks and have set their sights on Barcelona's Mariona Caldentey.

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Gunners releasing Dutch strikerExploring market for replacementsChelsea and Barca stars contactedWHAT HAPPENED?

The north London club announced on Monday that they will not be renewing Vivianne Miedema's contract when it expires this summer, thus ending her seven-year stay. Instead, the Gunners have been sounding out potential replacements for the 27-year-old, including Kirby, but reports say they will not pursue the England international. However, Barca star Caldentey is of interest to Jonas Eidevall.

AdvertisementGettyWHAT THE REPORT SAID

According to , contract talks between the Spanish champions and Caldentey have stalled and she may be available on a free transfer if the matter is not resolved. The 28-year-old will likely pause any negotiations until after the Champions League final against Lyon on 25 May. As for Kirby, state that initial talks were held with her representatives, with the Chelsea forward leaving on a free transfer in June, but the north Londoners decided against taking their interest further.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

The 28-year-old would be a great addition to Arsenal and the Women's Super League if she did decide to make the switch. Caldentey is a World Cup winner with Spain and an experienced player. It may be a significant step for the Gunners as they look to close the gap between Chelsea and Manchester City.

GettyWHAT NEXT FOR ARSENAL?

With the campaign almost over and the WSL title out of reach, Arsenal have already turned their attention to the summer and clearly mean business. Their pursuit of some of the game's top names shows their intent to establish their dominance with the feeling that a new era is dawning as Emma Hayes prepares to depart as Chelsea's head coach.