Arsenal’s journey under Mikel Arteta has been a mixture of promise and frustration. Once again, the Gunners teased their fans with glimpses of greatness throughout the season, but as the dust settles, the trophy cabinet remains untouched since 2020. Despite falling short in all competitions this year, the Emirates board is preparing to make a statement this summer — and it starts with putting serious money behind their manager.
Sources close to the club have confirmed that Arsenal’s board will provide Mikel Arteta with a sizable transfer budget to reshape the squad during the summer window. The goal? To close the gap that still separates them from consistent title-winning teams both in England and in Europe.
The Spaniard has been steadily rebuilding the team since taking over, moving on from the instability of previous years. Now, with Arsenal pushing near the top of the Premier League and having shown resilience in Europe, there’s belief inside the club that just a few more key signings could turn potential into silverware.
The technical staff is already deep in negotiations for Martin Zubimendi, the Real Sociedad midfielder long admired by Arsenal. The deal is reportedly close, and the Gunners are ready to activate his £51 million release clause. Zubimendi, who previously turned down interest from Liverpool, is seen as the ideal addition to stabilize the midfield and provide composure in tight matches — something Arsenal lacked at critical moments this season.
Meanwhile, Espanyol goalkeeper Joan García is another name poised to arrive. With David Raya’s performances dipping in recent months, Arteta wants meaningful competition between the sticks — and García is seen as someone capable of doing just that.
Perhaps the most pressing concern for Arsenal heading into the next campaign is the lack of a clinical forward. Injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus at key moments left the team blunt in attack, and too often they failed to convert dominance into goals. This summer, that will change.
Arteta has his sights on a true No.9 — someone who can turn narrow games in Arsenal’s favor. While Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is admired, the club is looking at more financially viable options like Viktor Gyökeres from Sporting Lisbon and Benjamin Šeško of RB Leipzig. Both have been under watch for months and are seen as strong fits for the high-press, fluid style Arsenal have been cultivating.
A left winger is also on the radar. Nico Williams from Athletic Club is being monitored closely as the Gunners look to increase their threat on both flanks. With Bukayo Saka carrying much of the offensive load this season, adding depth and dynamism on the opposite side is now considered a must.
There’s also growing interest in strengthening the backline. One option is Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, a young defender with a high ceiling and a £50 million release clause. However, his reluctance to join a club where regular playing time isn’t guaranteed may complicate any potential move — especially if current center-backs remain at the club.
To make room for new arrivals, Arsenal will need to offload several squad players. Discussions are ongoing to streamline the roster, not just to raise funds, but also to keep the dressing room competitive and focused.
