Arsenal’s pre-season preparations will be stepped-up this week when Mikel Arteta’s men head to the United States for the third summer in a row.
The Gunners will play three friendlies during their stay in the US, all coming against Premier League opponents in the shape of AFC Bournemouth, Manchester United and Liverpool.
Arteta has been working with his players for a couple of weeks now ahead of a third attempt of kicking Manchester City off top spot in English football. To do that, additions must be made and the Gunners are working tirelessly to improve Arteta’s squad.
David Raya’s loan move has been made permanent and goalkeeper prodigy Tommy Setford completed his move from Ajax over the weekend. The focus is now on strengthening the defence, midfield and attack.
Despite criticism and backlash over Arsenal’s lack of business before their trip to the USA, there is still plenty of time to get any deals done. The transfer window closes on August 30 meaning the Gunners squad could look different by the time they take on Brighton & Hove Albion on August 31.
As well as new signings, sporting director Edu Gaspar faces the tough task of selling players. Mohamed Elneny and Cedric Soares left at the end of June while Nuno Tavares (Lazio) and Albert Sambi Lokonga (Sevilla) have sealed loan moves away.
