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Arsenal are reportedly preparing to spend close to £200 million on four key targets this summer, as the club’s hierarchy look to back Mikel Arteta with a significant transfer war chest aimed at turning the Gunners into serious title contenders.
The ambitious spending plans come in the wake of another trophyless campaign, which ended with a Champions League semi-final exit to Paris Saint-Germain. Despite Arsenal’s progress under Arteta, the Spaniard has now completed five seasons at the helm without adding to his 2019/20 FA Cup triumph, and the club is keen to launch a major squad overhaul to bridge the gap to silverware.
Key departures are expected to pave the way for new arrivals. Thomas Partey, Jorginho, and Kieran Tierney are all out of contract this summer. While Partey could yet agree an extension, the exits of senior players would free up significant room on the wage bill. Oleksandr Zinchenko is also tipped to leave, while Leandro Trossard, who has just a year left on his contract, is attracting interest from Saudi Arabia. His departure would open the door for the recruitment of a new left winger.
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Defender Jakub Kiwior had seemed set for an exit earlier in the season but has impressed in recent weeks. However, the club may still consider offers if it helps fund reinforcements in defence.
Viktor Gyokeres (Image credit: Getty Images)The Mirror’s John Cross reports that Arsenal have identified four major signings as part of their summer strategy, in what is expected to be a huge show of faith in Arteta’s vision.
A new striker remains the top priority. Arteta is known to be a big admirer of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but more attainable options include Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyökeres—highly rated by sporting director Andrea Berta—and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. Arsenal made a push for Sesko last summer, but the Slovenian opted to stay in Germany. His decision proved costly for the Gunners, who have struggled with long-term injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus this season.
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In addition to a striker, Arsenal are targeting a left winger, with Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams high on their list. The club also believes a deal is in place to sign Spain international Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad for around £51 million, strengthening the midfield further.
Nico Williams (Image credit: Getty Images)Defensive reinforcements are also on the agenda, with Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen under serious consideration. However, Arsenal would need to move players out to make room, and the 20-year-old—who has a £50 million release clause—is reportedly concerned about limited playing time at the Emirates.
The Gunners are also eyeing a new No. 2 goalkeeper to compete with David Raya, whose form has dipped in recent weeks. Espanyol’s Joan Garcia is among the names being considered.
With the club set for a busy summer, all eyes will be on Berta and Arteta as they attempt to build a squad capable of finally delivering long-awaited silverware.
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