Arsenal have been keen to rework the squad this summer as they look to finally overhaul Manchester City in the title race having finished just two points behind their rivals last season. However, the market has thrown up plenty of obstacles to navigate so far.
The Profit and Sustainability rules have tightened purse strings for all clubs, including the Gunners. The deal last summer for David Raya to join on loan before being made permanent this July was done in such a way as to help the club work within the new financial boundaries – they have also since signed young goalkeeper Tommy Setford from Ajax for a small fee.
Mikel Arteta has also made reference to the other clear barrier which has been both the European Championships in Germany and the Copa America in the United States. When asked for updates on deals at his last press conference, it was clear by his answer that he wants movement.
“No unfortunately not, but we know there are certain positions that we want to improve and give the squad better resources, especially in terms of numbers where we are very short,” he said. “We will try our best but the main thing is to focus on falling in love with the players we have and make them better.”
Of course, it is not just incomings but the outgoing players too that need to be sorted and bring in some money to help free up potential space for new signings. One player whose situation looks no clearer is Aaron Ramsdale.
Having been pushed out of the No.1 spot by Raya, despite signing a new deal ahead of the season, the goalkeeper has said that he does not want to spend another campaign in the same position. Ahead of the Euros, he made his position quite clear.
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“No footballer wants to not play,” he told talkSPORT. “I’ve had a tough year personally not playing and I never want to do that again.
“It was tough, it was tough. But I have my release now, I’m now here, I’ve got the greatest honour, the greatest badge on my chest, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, if I play a minute or no minutes, it will be the pinnacle for me, the best day ever.”
Arsenal, rightfully have set a reported minimum £30million-plus price tag on the England international and so far interest has been sparse. Newcastle were thought to be keen but have since looked elsewhere, while Southampton have also been mentioned.
football.londonreported in late last year that Ramsdale had turned down an approach from a bottom-half Premier League side as he looks to continue playing at as high a level as possible. However, Arsenal may be forced into a tough decision.
They could opt to loan out the 26-year-old, which would likely spark much more interest. Then after a full season of game time, he might be a much more desirable profile and Arsenal can get a fee they’re looking for in 2025.
However, with both Nuno Tavares and Albert Sambi Lokonga sent on loan with the foresight to permanent exits, and Eddie Nketiah and Reiss Nelson speaking to Marseille and Leicester City respectively over similar types of deals, suddenly a window that had financial promise could see a delay in the funds and Arsenal therefore being more restricted in who they can sign before the deadline. Edu and Arteta need to make some tough choices.
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