Arsenal mid season rebuilt

Arsenal has had success with winter purchases in the past, but their heavy summer spending may restrict their options in January. Though the season has started off well, worries are raised by the long-term injuries sustained by Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jurrien Timber, necessitating the need for additional full-back players. In addition, consideration for January signings is prompted by midfield depth, notably given Thomas Partey’s continued fitness problems, and front-line concerns, specifically with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.

January Signings Strategy

Arsenal has a respectable reputation of acquiring important players during the January transfer window, having done it in the past with players like Martin Odegaard and Leandro Trossard. Manager Mikel Arteta is looking to bring in big names to help throughout the final stretch as they fight for the Premier League title.

Ivan Toney

Having drawn interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, Brentford striker Ivan Toney is a noteworthy target. Toney’s ability to score goals and his versatility make him a desirable option even with his expensive price tag. On the other hand, Arsenal might find Brazilian striker Leonardo through patience if Santos’ 2023 relegation makes him accessible.

Defensive Solutions: Goncalo Inacio and Diomande

Though Saliba’s absence in 2022–2023 brought attention to the need for depth, Arteta has historically relied on the defensive tandem of William Saliba and Gabriel. A possible answer is Goncalo Inacio of Sporting CP, who is renowned for his intelligent play and poise when handling the ball. Even so, Arsenal may find it financially difficult to meet his €60 million release clause.

Arsenal is among the elite clubs that are interested in Sporting’s Diomande, another defensive option, similar to Inacio. Diomande is a height and passing threat, and his value is estimated at £69 million. However, because of his AFCON commitments, he might not be available in January.

Read More: Top winter transfer targets for table topper Liverpool

Versatile Forward Option: Neto

Arsenal is connected to Neto, who is a versatile forward who is in good form. Possibly completing the gap left by players such as Emile Smith Rowe or Reiss Nelson, Neto might be a crucial addition with experience in the Premier League. But before making any sort of transfer, fitness issues must be resolved.

Arsenal is among the elite clubs that are interested in Sporting’s Diomande, another defensive option, similar to Inacio. Diomande is a height and passing threat, and his value is estimated at £69 million. However, because of his AFCON commitments, he might not be available in January.

Arsenal is connected to Neto, who is a versatile forward who is in good form. Possibly completing the gap left by players such as Emile Smith Rowe or Reiss Nelson, Neto might be a crucial addition with experience in the Premier League. But before making any sort of transfer, fitness issues must be resolved.

Emerging Talent: Hato’s Rise at Ajax

Hato’s rise to first team regular status has been one of Ajax’s few positive stories during their dreadful 2023–24 campaign. The 17-year-old, who can play in the middle or on the left side of defence, is rising to prominence in Amsterdam and is being linked to other clubs, including Arsenal.

Hato, although a young player, has led Ajax to victory twice this season—in the Dutch Cup and the Europa League—and scored a goal in their 5-0 defeat of weak Vitesse.

Timber’s adaptability across the backline would be appreciated by Arteta, as he is not anticipated to return for some months. Though his Johan Cruyff Arena deal is slated to expire in 2025, he’s again unlikely to come cheap.