Despite sitting at the summit of the Premier League, Arsenal's activity in the upcoming January transfer window remains a topic of intense speculation. Manager Mikel Arteta has hinted at potential moves, placing the onus on the club's hierarchy to act.
Will the Gunners Be Active This January?
According to talkSPORT's respected transfer journalist Alex Crook, a major spending spree is unlikely. "I'm not expecting Arsenal to do a lot of business," Crook stated, referencing Arteta's recent comments which put the ball in sporting director Andrea Berta's court. The club invested heavily last summer, bringing in eight new players for a total outlay of £250 million.
Crook elaborated that those signings were not merely for squad depth, suggesting Arteta might feel extra cover is needed during periods of depletion. "With so much at stake, would it be remiss of the club not to cover all bases?" he pondered. However, he emphasised that Arsenal are a brilliantly run club with plans already in place for the summer and will be assessing the market carefully this month.
Identifying Potential Areas for Reinforcement
The squad's impressive depth makes identifying obvious weaknesses challenging. In attack, Viktor Gyokeres – a £64 million summer signing – is being given time to settle, with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus providing further options. Wide areas are also well-stocked, allowing selection based on form rather than necessity.
Defensive numbers are good despite recent stretches, which leads analysts to consider midfield as a possible area for reinforcement. One name linked is Aleksandar Stankovic, who could offer depth both in defensive midfield and at centre-back. While Arteta has Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi for the holding role, Stankovic's physical profile – comparable to Rice's – could provide a different tactical option.
Outlook for Academy Prospects
Crook also addressed the situation for some of the club's promising young talents. He suggested that Ethan Nwaneri, who is seeing limited minutes, "maybe will be allowed to leave on loan in January." Conversely, he believes fellow youngster Miles Lewis-Skelly is likely to "stay in the building" and continue his development with the first-team squad.
The overarching sentiment is one of strategic patience. Arsenal's strong league position and squad health mean any January business is likely to be calculated and opportunistic, rather than a reaction to crisis, as they continue their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.
