As the January transfer window approaches, Premier League leaders Arsenal are set to adopt a notably cautious strategy, prioritising the retention of their current squad over blockbuster new arrivals.
Gunners Lead the Pack as Window Nears
Arsenal sit top of the Premier League table after 17 games, holding a slender but significant two-point advantage over reigning champions Manchester City. This strong position, following a busy summer where the club spent around £250 million on players including Viktor Gyokeres, Eberechi Eze, Martin Zubimendi, and Noni Madueke, has shaped their thinking for the winter market.
The primary objective for manager Mikel Arteta and Sporting Director Andrea Berta is to ensure squad stability for the intense run-in, rather than disrupting a winning formula. This means a greater emphasis on keeping key players at the Emirates Stadium.
Exploratory Talks and Defensive Targets
The club is, however, conducting its due diligence. According to reports from The Athletic, Arsenal are holding 'exploratory talks' over several options, a method favoured by Berta. One name on their radar is Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet. The French centre-back, who signed a new contract until 2029 earlier this year, is viewed as a potential option to address the team's defensive injury concerns.
Another player who has attracted interest is Bournemouth's 25-year-old forward Antoine Semenyo, a childhood Arsenal fan. Contact has been made, but the Gunners' preference is to pursue a deal in the summer of 2026. This stance could see them miss out, with rivals Manchester City reportedly ready to move for Semenyo in January.
Arteta's Reactive Stance and Squad Dynamics
Manager Mikel Arteta has publicly outlined the club's flexible stance. "We always have to be prepared," Arteta stated earlier in December. "The moment that we have an option to touch the squad, to improve the squad or to protect the squad, depending on what happens, we need to be open for it."
This indicates a reactive approach, where Arsenal will be alert to opportunities but will not force deals. The return of Gabriel Jesus from a long-term injury has also influenced plans. After being linked with an exit, the Brazilian forward is now back in Arteta's first-team picture and is considered an important part of the squad the manager is reluctant to lose.
In terms of departures, loans for academy prospects like Harrison Dudziak – who has joined Braintree Town – are more probable. However, temporary moves for first-team fringe players such as Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly are deemed much less likely, despite their limited minutes.
Ultimately, Arsenal's January activity will be defined by protection over revolution, as they aim to convert their promising league position into a first Premier League title in over two decades.
