Arsenal's Transfer Plans Taking Shape
Arsenal are preparing for pre-season with most of the squad at the World Cup, but the club is expected to ramp up transfer activity in the coming weeks. The Gunners are focused on strengthening the left wing and midfield to bolster their Premier League title defence.
Defensive Stability with Key Players
David Raya will remain Arsenal's No1 after winning the Golden Glove for the third consecutive season. Gabriel and William Saliba continue as one of Europe's top centre-back pairings, with Cristhian Mosquera providing backup. The club may sign a full-back if Ben White leaves, but Jurrien Timber is expected to start at right-back, while Piero Hincapie and Riccardo Calafiori compete on the left. Calafiori's creativity in the final third could give him the edge, while Hincapie joins permanently from Bayer Leverkusen after a successful loan.
Midfield Reinforcements: Ayyoub Bouaddi
Arsenal have held initial talks for Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi, though no formal bid has been made. The 18-year-old, valued at around £70 million, impressed at the World Cup and can play as a holding midfielder or right-back. He could partner Declan Rice or act as a sole defensive midfielder, allowing Rice to push forward. Martin Odegaard and Eberechi Eze are likely to compete for the advanced midfield role, with Eze also capable on the left.
Attacking Additions: Morgan Rogers Priority
Arsenal are very interested in Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers and believe he would be keen to join if a fee is agreed. He could play on the left of the front three, drifting inside to link with Odegaard or Eze. The club has also considered Club Brugge's Christos Tzolis, but that would likely be an additional signing. Bukayo Saka remains a guaranteed starter on the right, though his Achilles injury will be managed during pre-season.
Striker Situation Uncertain
Viktor Gyokeres scored 21 goals in his first season but struggled to fit the system initially. Kai Havertz is Arteta's preferred striker when fit, and Arsenal may still sign a new forward. Julian Alvarez is admired but a move is not realistic. The transfer budget is more likely to go on a winger, with Rogers top of the shortlist.
Potential Arsenal XI for next season: Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Bouaddi, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Havertz, Rogers.
