Arsenal’s intentions are clear this summer, with Andrea Berta and Mikel Arteta intent on improving the squad for the 2025/26 season.
After another second place finish in the Premier League, the Gunners know they must strengthen in the transfer market to try and bridge the gap to Liverpool, who have already been fairly active themselves in player recruitment. Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga look close to being completed, although a defender, striker and wide forward are also on the agenda.
With the likes of Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko and Rodrygo all linked with a move to Emirates Stadium, Arteta revealed just a few months ago that attracting world class players to north London will not be a problem. “Maybe that is another factor, but we are very lucky because we are a football club that every time we have spoken to players, they want to be part of it [our club],” Arteta said after beating Real Madrid in the Champions League.
“That is probably something that can generate more enthusiasm or belief, and the fact that I want to be part of these nights now because the club is in a good place. Overall, we are ready, we are strong and we can attract any player.”
One player who may not be moving to Arsenal this summer, though, is Nico Williams. According to reports on Monday, the Athletic Club star prefers a move to Barcelona at this stage. Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Chelsea are all said to be interested in the winger but it is the La Liga giants who are currently winning the race for Williams’ signature, with “important new negotiations” taking place in recent days.
Williams’ decision could be seen as a blow to Arsenal, who may now look to press ahead with signing a new striker instead. football.london understands Sesko and Gyokeres are of interest to the Gunners, although a move for either is likely to cost north of £60million.
With Arsenal seemingly no longer signing Williams, who was understood to be asking for mega wages, this could give Berta the greenlight to sanction a big money striker move. Sesko is believed to be favoured by the Arsenal hierarchy, although no progress has been made on any deal at present.
As well as a striker, football.london understands a deal for Zubimendi is all but done, with a medical only left to complete. Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa has also agreed to make the move across the capital, with the Gunners paying the Blues £5million for the Spaniard’s services.
