Arsenal will still try to add to their squad even if they pull off the blockbuster double transfer swoop of Bruno Guimaraes and Vinicius Junior. The Gunners have agreed to sign Newcastle's captain for £75million and could pair him with Brazil team-mate Vinicius Jr, who is mulling over whether or not to sign a new contract at Real Madrid.
More signings on the horizon
But Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are reportedly not finished, even if they splash out what could be approximately £200m on the two Brazilians. Winger Christos Tzolis and goalkeeper Karl Darlow have also arrived, but another defender is on Arsenal's wishlist.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims that the Gunners may move for a new centre-back in light of William Saliba's back injury. France manager Didier Deschamps revealed ahead of their final World Cup fixture this summer that his defender had been managing the issue since March.
Saliba's injury concerns
"William Saliba got injured," he said, "and it's problematic. He went through some examinations, and the injury did not worsen. He has faced that injury since March; he had some pain, and unfortunately, the pain was not bearable."
Arsenal, however, maintain that thorough assessments have determined that surgery is not required. Specialist evaluations confirmed that the injury would necessitate a period of rehabilitation.
Back complaints previously troubled Saliba three years ago. An injury sustained during the second leg of Arsenal's Europa League round of 16 clash against Sporting brought his 2022/23 campaign to a premature end. He was sidelined for the final 11 Premier League matches and missed four of France's European Championship qualifiers as well. Saliba made his comeback four months later, during Arsenal's pre-season preparations.
Defensive options and targets
The club have brought in defenders Cristhian Mosquera, Jurrien Timber, Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori since that point. This summer, the former has featured as a right centre half, partnering Gabriel against Girona, with manager Arteta evidently plotting for him to deputise for Saliba.
Ben White represents another possibility who can shift inside from right-back to operate centrally. Arsenal, though, continue to monitor the market for cover.
Ezri Konsa remains under consideration, but Aston Villa's asking price, which exceeds £50m, continues to prevent any prospective deal. John Stones was also weighed up before joining Inter Milan on a free transfer.
