Arsenal finally ended their two-decade wait for a Premier League title last May, but winning the crown was only half the battle. Retaining it will be an even tougher test, especially with rivals already strengthening their squads. As the new campaign approaches, the Gunners cannot afford to stand still. Here, we examine five signings that could help Mikel Arteta secure back-to-back titles.
Vinicius Jr: The Statement Signing
The saga of the summer has a clear focus: Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian winger has emerged as a blockbuster target for Arsenal, with doubts over his future at Real Madrid. He has just one year left on his contract, and Kylian Mbappe's arrival at the Bernabeu has pushed him out of the spotlight. Real remain confident about agreeing new terms, but until a deal is done, speculation will continue.
For Arsenal, landing Vinicius would be a genuine statement of intent. He brings world-class quality on the pitch and global appeal off it. If the Gunners want to show they intend to dominate English football, not just defend their title, prying the Brazilian away from Madrid would be a huge signal.
Yan Diomande: The Alternative Winger
Arsenal need a winger, and they have alternatives if Vinicius proves impossible. RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande is one such target. The winger enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Bundesliga. Reports say Arsenal, PSG, Liverpool and Manchester City are all interested, while Real Madrid could enter the race if Vinicius leaves. The situation has been called an "open race".
Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has stressed the need for a left winger, especially after Leandro Trossard's departure. He said: "They have to get a left winger in, especially now Leandro Trossard has left. They left themselves very short in that position." He added: "For them to let Trossard go is not good business in my opinion - not for what you're selling. He went for literally nothing. I can't believe that half the Premier League weren't after Trossard!"
Bruno Guimaraes: Midfield Upgrade
When a player like Bruno Guimaraes becomes available, Arsenal must act. His exit from Newcastle appears to have been accelerated by Eddie Howe's departure as manager. Guimaraes wrote an emotional tribute to Howe on social media, saying: "King of this club!! Thanks for everything you've done for us. I loved enjoying our time together. Thanks for making me a better player and person!" He added: "No words I can say will really say how much I enjoyed being your player. Wish you all the very best in your future, gaffer."
Guimaraes would add extra quality in midfield for Arteta. The Brazilian fits the high-energy style the Spanish coach prefers, but he will not come cheap. Arsenal may need to sell before they can buy.
Maxi Araujo: Defensive Reinforcement
Arsenal already have the best defence in the league, but standing still would let rivals catch up. This summer, reports emerged that they were offered the chance to sign Maxi Araujo from Sporting CP. According to The Sun, Arsenal and Liverpool were both offered the full-back for £51.5m and are now considering whether he would be a good fit.
Araujo is explosive, direct and relentless, comfortable anywhere on the left. His ability to drive at defenders and create overloads would give Arsenal another attacking outlet. However, there are question marks: he thrives when given space to attack, which he may not get at the Emirates, where opponents often defend deep.
Mika Godts: One for the Present and Future
Mika Godts is a unique talent, and Arsenal may never get another chance to sign him for such a price. The Belgian winger had a sensational breakthrough season with Ajax, registering 32 goal contributions. However, Ajax technical director Jordi Cruyff has taken a firm stance. He told Dutch media: "Ultimately, players like Godts will leave, but only at the right time and for the right price... We want to keep him in Amsterdam for at least another year. He is not for sale and otherwise very difficult to buy."
