Arsenal are already planning for the January transfer window, with three Premier League players reportedly on their shopping list. The Gunners returned to the top of the English top flight last weekend, but Mikel Arteta is keen for his team to push on.
The Spanish boss has demanded his players elevate their performance levels as they prepare to face Hull City in the Premier League on Saturday, after they were fortunate to come away from Prague with a 2-1 victory in the Champions League on Wednesday.
Three top-flight stars monitored
Arsenal are said to be tracking three Bournemouth regulars as they consider a move for their Premier League counterparts. According to TeamTalk, Marcus Tavernier, Eli Junior Kroupi and Alex Scott are all currently being watched by the Gunners.
The report suggests Arsenal have been gathering intelligence on Tavernier as they look to strengthen the left flank of their attacking options. The Gunners have long held an interest in Scott and Kroupi, who have recorded four goal contributions between them this season.
Kroupi features on the club's January shopping list, though Bournemouth are reluctant to part ways. Scott, meanwhile, has turned down fresh terms with the Cherries, attracting attention from Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City.
Arteta lays down the law to Declan Rice
Arteta has brushed aside concerns over Rice's condition, despite the 27-year-old appearing weary during the second-half slump against Slavia Prague. While the Gunners secured a 2-1 triumph, the Spanish boss said his players lost sight of "basics".
Asked about keeping the midfielder on the pitch for the entire match, Arteta responded: "The game required it, and he did. He was as well rested against Fleetwood so he had a very good week to recover before Liverpool.
"It's his second game in a week and not the fifth one. We expect our players to be able to do that and I think he had some very good moments throughout the game."
