Arteta 'puts four Arsenal stars on transfer list' to fund huge rebuild

Arsenal are already laying the groundwork for the 2025/26 season, with whispers of a significant squad revamp in the pipeline. The Gunners' current campaign has been marred by injuries and inconsistency, and Sunday's 1-1 draw with Manchester United effectively dashed what was left of their slim Premier League title hope, with Liverpool now sitting comfortably atop the table with a 15-point lead.

While Arsenal remain contenders for the Champions League, it seems some of their attention is shifting towards an anticipated summer overhaul. The need for a central striker at Arsenal is no secret, and it's believed they're also scouting for wingers and central midfielders.

However, to accommodate these new additions, they'll need to create room in the squad and raise funds, which suggests several first-team players could be on their way out. Various reports suggest that Oleksandr Zinchenko, Jorginho, Thomas Partey and Kieran Tierney are all likely to depart this summer, as Arsenal aim to amass a 'transfer war chest' for manager Mikel Arteta.

According to Transfermarkt, the four players have a combined value of £55million. However, with three of them nearing the end of their contracts this summer, it's unlikely Arsenal will secure that full amount.

Partey, whose contract expires at the end of the season, is the only one among the four who regularly features in matches. That being said, the Ghanaian is also one of the highest earners at the club, reportedly pocketing £200,000 per week, and he turns 32 in June.

Jorginho, who is also nearing the end of his contract, has seen limited league action this season due to the arrival of Mikel Merino. The anticipated summer signing of Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi could further push him down the ranks, suggesting a move away might be best for the ex-Chelsea star.

Zinchenko's standing at Arsenal has also taken a hit following Riccardo Calafiori's transfer to the Emirates Stadium. While Calafiori has spent a chunk of the season out injured, Arteta has primarily turned to Jurrien Timber as his backup left-back.

Zinchenko attracted interest from clubs like Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid in January, but the 28-year-old Ukrainian chose to stay. However, a summer departure seems likely, with Arsenal reportedly setting a £17m asking price.

Tierney finds himself in a similar situation to Zinchenko, with the Scottish international struggling for game time at left-back. With his contract expiring in the summer, a return to Celtic is rumoured to be on the cards.

Oleksandr Zinchenko and Thomas Partey in training

Oleksandr Zinchenko and Thomas Partey are also on the chopping block

As for possible additions, Arsenal are keen to secure a striker, given the underwhelming performances of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. Potential targets include Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak, and Victor Osimhen, along with alternative options like Liam Delap, Ollie Watkins, and Lautaro Martinez.

In terms of wingers, Mikel Arteta's top pick is Nico Williams, but he's not the only one with an eye on the Spanish international - Barcelona, Liverpool and Real Madrid are also reportedly interested. Meanwhile, Bryan Mbeumo, Antoine Semenyo and Ademola Lookman are all on Arsenal's radar.