Arsenal poised for summer spending spree after quiet January

Arsenal believe their decision to endure a “dry January” in the transfer market will pay dividends in the summer window.

Despite exploring multiple opportunities, the Gunners opted against making any winter signings.

However, this restraint is expected to leave them well-equipped with significant financial resources to bolster their squad at the end of the season.

Mikel Arteta has been clear about the club’s intent to strengthen its attacking options, with a marquee striker remaining a top priority.

Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško are leading Arsenal’s wishlist.

Securing Isak’s signature will be particularly challenging, as Newcastle are determined to keep their Swedish talisman and may demand a British-record transfer fee.

The Magpies are keen to extend his contract, making a summer move even more difficult.

As a result, Šeško is currently seen as a more realistic target.

Arsenal previously made an approach for the Slovenian last summer, but he chose to extend his contract with Leipzig before heading to Euro 2024.

The Bundesliga side refused to entertain offers in January, but the situation could change in the summer.

Meanwhile, the possibility of reigniting interest in Ollie Watkins remains uncertain, especially as the England international turns 30 in December.

Arsenal are also considering signing a wide player, though their primary focus remains on a striker.

Raheem Sterling is expected to return to Chelsea, while admiration for Athletic Club’s Nico Williams persists.

However, attacking reinforcements will likely take precedence.

In midfield, major changes are anticipated.

Jorginho and Thomas Partey are both set to leave as free agents when their contracts expire in June.

Jorginho is already in discussions with Brazilian giants Flamengo over a pre-contract agreement, though Arsenal rejected a cut-price sale in January, preferring to keep him for the remainder of the campaign.

The Gunners have laid significant groundwork for a £51million move for Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi, but Real Madrid could yet enter the race.

Arsenal are prepared to meet his release clause, but negotiations over personal terms and competition from other European clubs could complicate matters.

Additionally, 18-year-old Norwegian talent Sverre Nypan remains on Arsenal’s radar after opting to stay at Rosenborg for an extra six months.

The Gunners are prepared to offer him a clear pathway to the first team.

A decision is pending regarding a backup goalkeeper, with veteran loanee Neto set to return to Bournemouth.

Espanyol’s No.1 Joan García remains a key target, and Arsenal have maintained contact with his agency, Niagara Sports Company, after seeing two bids rejected last summer.

Espanyol remain firm in their stance that his release clause must be met.

Defensive reinforcements will likely depend on departures.

Kieran Tierney is expected to return to Celtic on a free transfer, while Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko are considering exits due to limited game time.

Rising star Myles Lewis-Skelly has leapfrogged both Riccardo Calafiori and Zinchenko in the pecking order, meaning a direct replacement for the Ukrainian may not be necessary.

Real Madrid have shown interest in William Saliba, but the French defender has no intention of leaving, and Arsenal are unwilling to entertain offers.

Meanwhile, Ajax’s Jorrel Hato remains a potential target should defensive reinforcements be required.

Behind the scenes, Arsenal are finalising the appointment of Edu’s successor.

Jason Ayto has stepped up as interim sporting director and remains a strong candidate for the permanent role.

The club have also explored other options, including Real Sociedad’s Roberto Olabe and former Arsenal midfielder Tomáš Rosický, currently at Sparta Prague.

With a clear transfer strategy and significant funds at their disposal, Arsenal are preparing for an ambitious summer window as they look to close the gap on their rivals.

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