Christmas is over, which means the January transfer window is right around the corner.
For Arsenal, it’s been a strong year, and they are in the thick of another title race for the third season running. They are yet to close the gap on Liverpool at the top of the standings, but the Gunners will know better than anyone how a couple of results can transform things entirely.
The transfer window could provide Mikel Arteta with the perfect opportunity to bolster his squad and allow them to kick on in the race for the Premier League trophy. The manager will know there are still a few key positions on the pitch that could be upgraded.
Attacking reinforcement
It is no secret that the forward line remains somewhat of a problem position for Arsenal, despite their 34 goals scored in the Premier League this season. The recent injury to star player Bukayo Saka only underscores that.
Signing attackers in January, especially those that would be regarded as an upgrade on Arsenal’s current options, is no easy task. But, should the right opportunity present itself, it could be the boost the Gunners need ahead of the second half of the campaign.
Arsenal have been linked with a number of strikers, but Viktor Gyokeres is the one on everybody’s lips this season. His release clause means they won’t be forced to overpay, although clubs interested in the Sweden international may be banking on Sporting CP accepting a lower offer in the summer.
A pacy winger should also be on the wishlist, not least because of Saka’s injury woes. Both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard can arguably be upgraded on, which was highlighted by Arsenal’s reported interest in Nico Williams over the summer.
Ademola Lookman of Atalanta has impressive numbers this season with 12 goals and five assists in his 20 appearances so far. He also boasts plenty of Premier League experience, but at 27, it remains to be seen whether the Gunners would prefer a player of a younger age profile.
Three contract decisions
Kieran Tierney, Jorginho and Thomas Partey are all out of contract in the summer, which means decisions need to be made over their futures. The January transfer window represents one final opportunity to cash in and recoup some of the transfer fees paid for them.
Tierney is one of the likelier players to depart sooner rather than later, although his injury problems could act as a stumbling block for any potential deal. Arsenal may also prefer to keep their midfield options until the end of the campaign in order to land their primary targets in the summer.
