Arsenal has been smart with their spending this summer, but there might still be a few surprises left in store as Transfer Deadline Day approaches.
Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has already secured three key signings this summer, as he aims to finally dethrone Manchester City and guide Arsenal to Premier League glory. The latest addition, Mikel Merino, arrived from Real Sociedad for £31 million, following the signings of Riccardo Calafiori for £42 million and the return of first-choice goalkeeper David Raya.
Several players have also departed, including boyhood Gunner Emile Smith Rowe, who joined Fulham in a club-record deal. Albert Sambi Lokonga, Nuno Tavares, and Fabio Vieira have all left on loan.
Despite winning their first two matches, Arsenal’s title rivals, Manchester City, remain as formidable as ever. To truly challenge Pep Guardiola’s side, Arsenal may need an extra weapon or two, secured on Deadline Day. Here are five potential deals that could make Arteta’s dream squad a reality.
1. Eddie Nketiah: OUT
Eddie Nketiah appears to be on his way out of Arsenal, as he looks for a permanent move. The 25-year-old was initially linked with Marseille, but after that move collapsed, he is now likely to stay in the Premier League.
Crystal Palace has reportedly agreed in principle to sign Nketiah, with a £30 million deal on the table. This move not only offers Nketiah a chance to prove himself but also frees up his wages and provides Arsenal with additional funds to reinvest in the squad.
2. Viktor Gyökeres: IN
If Nketiah is sold, Arsenal could make a move for a top striker like Viktor Gyökeres. Arteta has hinted that his forward options are limited, stating, “We are a little bit short. If we can do something, we will do it, but at the moment, we love the ones we have; they are really, really good.”
With Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus as Arsenal’s only senior strikers, Gyökeres could be the answer to Arsenal’s title ambitions. The Swedish striker, currently at Sporting CP, has already scored six goals in just three league games this season. Sporting recently renegotiated his sell-on clause, possibly indicating they are preparing to let him go. Reports suggest he could be available for less than his £86.5 million release clause.
3. Aaron Ramsdale: OUT
To fund a marquee striker signing, Arsenal might consider selling Aaron Ramsdale. With David Raya now established as Arsenal’s first-choice goalkeeper, Ramsdale could seek a move to secure more playing time.
Several clubs have shown interest, including Wolves and Ajax, but Arsenal’s preference for a loan deal with an option to buy has slowed negotiations. If Ramsdale is sold, it could generate the necessary funds for a major signing.
4. Joan Garcia: IN
Should Ramsdale depart, Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has been identified as a potential replacement. The 23-year-old played a key role in Espanyol’s promotion last-season and has caught Arteta’s eye as a reliable No. 2.
Garcia’s transfer would cost around £25 million, but Espanyol is reluctant to let him go. However, with Ramsdale’s future uncertain, Arsenal might push for this deal to secure their goalkeeping depth.
5. Simon Adingra: IN
Arteta may still look to bolster his options out wide, particularly if finances allow. With Spain starlet Nico Williams opting to stay at Athletic Club, Arsenal’s attention has shifted to Brighton’s Simon Adingra.
The Ivorian winger has shown his quality, despite facing competition from Brighton’s big-money signing, Yankuba Minteh. Adingra has drawn interest from top clubs and could provide much-needed depth and rotation options for Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard. A late move for Adingra could strengthen Arsenal’s attack as they chase the title.
As with much of Arsenal’s summer business, these potential signings depend on outgoings. If Nketiah and Ramsdale are sold, and Jakub Kiwior finds a new club, Arsenal could have the funds to make a game-changing deal.
Whether Arsenal completes these signings before the window closes or waits until the next opportunity, securing a top striker and an additional winger could tip the scales in their favor in the title race. With the right additions, Arteta’s side could finally overcome Manchester City and bring the Premier League trophy back to North London.
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