Mikel Arteta will reportedly be handed a substantial transfer war-chest by Arsenal this summer after the club ended their 22-year wait to win the Premier League title. The Gunners secured the championship when Manchester City drew at Bournemouth on Tuesday, sparking celebrations across north London.
Contract Extension and Financial Backing
Arsenal are now preparing to offer their manager a bumper contract extension, which will make him one of the highest-paid managers in world football. Club co-chairs Stan and Josh Kroenke have indicated their intent to continue investing heavily in the squad. In the matchday programme for the victory over Burnley, they wrote that they have no intention of standing still.
The Guardian reports that Arteta will play a central role in shaping the next chapter of this Premier League-winning side, working alongside sporting director Andrea Berta. However, their report notes that another £250 million spending spree akin to last summer is unlikely, despite the club's ambitious plans.
Key Transfer Targets
Among the players on Arsenal's radar is Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi. The 19-year-old scored the goal that effectively ended City's title hopes on Tuesday. The Cherries, who are well-placed to secure Champions League football, could demand around £80 million for the forward. Arsenal will face competition from Chelsea and Real Madrid, who are also monitoring his situation.
From the Gunners' standpoint, Kroupi is considered a potential option to challenge Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres for a central striking role. Julian Alvarez is another player Arteta has his eye on. The former Manchester City striker featured prominently in the Atletico Madrid side that was knocked out of the Champions League semi-finals by Arsenal. However, Atletico's asking price could be a stumbling block.
Paris Saint-Germain star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has been described as a dream signing, though PSG will not entertain any approaches. Other potential targets include Sandro Tonali, Bradley Barcola, Nico Williams, and Anthony Gordon.
Potential Departures
Gabriel Martinelli would be permitted to leave if a suitable bid arrives. Exits could be on the cards despite the euphoria of winning the title. Ethan Nwaneri's future remains uncertain following his loan spell at Marseille, with Borussia Dortmund reportedly keen. Christian Norgaard and Gabriel Jesus are believed to be edging closer to the exit, which could free up funds.
Speaking publicly for the first time since being crowned champions, Arteta said: "It's incredible to hear them, especially understanding the journey, the manner that we've done it and how many people have been involved and waiting for so long to accomplish that goal. It changes because the level of emotion that you feel is something probably that I haven't felt before, and as a manager and as a player, it's different. It's really incredible. The last 48 hours have been so much fun and enjoyment, and great to live it."
