Bukayo Saka has been sidelined for weeks, with breakout star Ethan Nwaneri also joining him on the sidelines. Arsenal have also had a fresh blow, with Gabriel Jesus likely to miss the remainder of the season.
With Arsenal now just four points behind table-topping Liverpool following their win against Tottenham, some new signings could go a long way in keeping up a title challenge. A number of positions could potentially do with strengthening.
Luckily, there appears to be plenty of work going on behind the scenes in north London. Take a look at what Arsenal’s side could look like in the second half of the season, if all of Arteta's wishes come true.
Let’s start in attack where the Gunners could potentially be set to spend the most money. Jesus’ long-term injury has worsened the need for a new striker - and there are a few candidates.
Benjamin Sesko, Alexander Isak and Bryan Mbeumo are among the forwards to have been linked with a move to the Gunners.. But Arteta appears to have found his man in the form of Sporting Lisbon hitman Viktor Gyokeres.
Reports in France have suggested that Arsenal are now ready to activate the £83m release clause written into his contract. And there is no doubt that he would be a brilliant addition after scoring 32 goals in 30 appearances this season.
There could also be an addition on the left-flank. Arsenal are long-term admirers of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams and like Gyokeres, he has a release clause that the Gunners could activate.
Williams has not yet made a decision over his future but the north London side are seemingly leading the race for his services. He would be an excellent addition on the left, with Saka expected to return in the latter stages of the season.
Moving into midfield, there could also be a major addition in midfield. Reports have claimed that Arsenal are closing in on the future signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.
Arsenal could field a stunning team come the end of January
The Spaniard is set to make his move official in the summer but the Gunners are still keen to welcome him to the club this month. He would slot alongside Declan Rice should a move be completed. Captain Martin Odegaard would round off a formidable midfield.
Into defence, there are unlikely to be any alterations over the coming months. Jurrien Timber is finally displaying his true form following last summer’s move, with Riccardo Calafiori stationed on the other side.
William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have put together an incredible partnership over recent seasons and that is unlikely to change unless one leaves for big money. Arteta also seems to have found his long-term goalkeeping option in David Raya.
Arsenal’s potential XI: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Williams.
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