When you think of the big spenders in the Premier League, Arsenal are up there. While Manchester United, Chelsea and former champions Manchester City were known for getting their chequebooks out, Mikel Arteta’s current side has cost over £800 million to assemble, but so far, it’s failed to deliver the silverware that is the real currency of success in football.
Arsenal’s 2024/25 campaign has proven frustrating for Mikel Arteta as his team took two steps forward but one step back, lacking the consistency needed to sustain a serious title challenge while falling short at the Champions League semi-final stage. Despite clear progress, the club’s concerning injury record has undermined their efforts and highlighted the need for reinforcements.
Just when Arsenal thought their issues on the treatment table were easing, they suffered further setbacks.
On top of losing Bukayo Saka for three months, defender Gabriel pulled up early during their Premier League win over Fulham – a match that ironically saw Saka return from injury to score the winner.
With injuries and suspensions plaguing the north Londoners throughout the season, many analysts have identified this as a primary factor in Arsenal’s faltering title bid. The squad has endured 18 different injuries resulting in over 130 matches missed collectively.
But one area they seem extremely healthy in is cash for a summer overhaul. If they want to be seen as the favourite for next year’s title with Gambling.com and finally overthrow Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola, they need to sign some new players.
The club plans to refresh their squad, potentially generating additional funds through player sales to reinvest in new signings is exciting for fans at the Emirates. Here are their targets.
Martin Zubimendi – Real Sociedad
Arsenal are confident of securing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and appear ready to trigger his £50.5m (€60m) release clause as soon as the season concludes.
The versatile Spanish international has demonstrated his ability to excel across the entire midfield during Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 campaign, where his technical security and game intelligence impressed on the biggest stage.
Zubimendi’s potential arrival at the Emirates, after turning down champions Liverpool last year, could be facilitated by his close relationship with former Real Sociedad teammate Mikel Merino, who made the same journey from San Sebastian to North London last summer.
This personal connection could prove decisive in getting the deal over the line, particularly with other elite European clubs monitoring the situation.
At 25, Zubimendi represents the perfect age profile for Arsenal – experienced enough to make an immediate impact but with his best years still ahead of him.
His ability to operate as both a holding midfielder and in a more advanced role would provide Arteta with valuable tactical options, especially during the congested fixture schedule that has exposed Arsenal’s lack of depth this season.
Viktor Gyokeres – Sporting CP
The Gunners are reportedly turning their attention away from Alexander Isak and focusing instead on Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres as a top striker target.
With Isak deemed too expensive and Newcastle unlikely to sell to a Premier League rival, Gyokeres represents a more attainable option.
His Swedish compatriot is a deadly forward and already familiar with English football from his time at Coventry City but could potentially reunite with Ruben Amorim at Manchester United if they secure Champions League football by defeating Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final.
Benjamin Sesko – RB Leipzig
A striker is certainly the talk of the town and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko remains firmly on Arsenal’s radar as an alternative striking option.
The Slovenian forward is valued at more than £67.3m (€80m), making him a significant investment but one that could address Arsenal’s need for a clinical finisher.
At just 21 years old, Sesko offers both immediate impact and long-term potential, fitting Arsenal’s recruitment profile of talented young players with high ceilings.
Joan Garcia – Espanyol
Arsenal are expected to bring in a new goalkeeper to compete with David Raya, with Espanyol’s Joan Garcia reportedly among their preferred targets.
The 24-year-old has enjoyed a breakout season in La Liga, helping his boyhood club move clear of the relegation zone.
However, Newcastle could prove a stumbling block, with reports from Spain suggesting the Magpies have made a move to hijack Arsenal’s interest.
The Magpies are also considering Burnley’s James Trafford, Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, and Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale so it will be interesting to see what plays out there.
But what about the existing squad?
While incomings will be crucial, managing departures and securing key players will be equally important for Arsenal this summer.
Raheem Sterling’s loan spell is set to expire, and Jorginho is expected to move on, creating vacancies that will need to be filled to maintain squad depth.
Arsenal are reportedly determined to fend off interest from Real Madrid in William Saliba by opening contract talks with the French defender. His current contract runs until summer 2027, but a new deal would both reward his performances and potentially increase his release clause.
For Arsenal, this summer represents a critical juncture. With Manchester City and Liverpool likely to strengthen again, the Gunners must address their squad deficiencies while retaining their core talents if they hope to finally end their Premier League title drought next season.