Arsenal have already set their sights on several high-profile signings to finally break Manchester City’s dominance under Pep Guardiola. Mikel Arteta, having been edged out of the Premier League title race by his former mentor for the past two seasons, is determined to change that narrative in the coming months.
While last summer’s £200 million spending spree might have put Arsenal in a precarious financial situation, the club seems ready to make bold moves for 2025. The caliber of players being linked to the Gunners suggests that they are prepared to go all in once again.
Following Arteta’s recent three-year contract extension, attention has shifted back to transfers, with reports revealing an ambitious three-pronged strategy. Uxsports has shared the latest updates on Arsenal’s transfer plans and rumors.
Musiala on the Radar
Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala has emerged as a potential target in Arsenal’s pursuit of a unique attacking option, according to *The Times*. Alongside Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao, Musiala has caught the eye of the Gunners, though his £100 million price tag initially deterred interested clubs. However, with the 21-year-old entering the final year of his contract after the 2024/25 season, that figure may drop significantly.
Talks about a contract extension at Bayern haven’t progressed, which could open the door for a potential transfer at a more reasonable price next summer.
Uxsports states: “Landing Musiala at the Emirates would send a powerful message from Arteta and Edu. The former Chelsea prospect has limitless potential and could be the player to lead Arsenal to sustained success. Bayern won’t settle for less than £100 million now, but they could be forced to lower their demands if Musiala’s contract situation remains unresolved.”
Liverpool had also shown interest in Musiala, but he fits the profile of the type of attacking talent Arteta wants to bring to the team.
Arteta’s Quest for a Defensive Midfielder
In addition to Musiala, Arsenal are reportedly looking to sign a young defensive midfielder, with the aim of replicating the impact Rodri had at Manchester City after joining at 23. Arteta appears to be positioning Declan Rice in a more advanced role, leaving the defensive midfield slot open as Thomas Partey and Jorginho approach the latter stages of their careers.
According to The Times, the search for a new No.6 is ongoing, with Arteta eyeing a player who can transform Arsenal’s midfield like Rodri has done for City.
Uxsports adds: “The market for defensive midfielders is thin, but if anyone can discover a hidden gem or rejuvenate a top talent, it’s Arteta. Long-time target Martin Zubimendi is likely off the table as he seems committed to staying at Real Sociedad. Plus, turning 26 soon, Zubimendi might be seen as too old, given that Arteta is looking at younger players like Musiala and Williams.”
With the summer window still months away, Edu and his scouting team have ample time to find the perfect candidate to fulfill Arteta’s vision for the team.
