At the heart of Arsenal’s renewed ambition is newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta.
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Arsenal finds itself at a crucial crossroads.
Despite a spirited campaign that saw them reach the Champions League semi-finals and contend for the Premier League title, Mikel Arteta’s team is facing a fifth consecutive trophy-less season.
Their recent elimination by Paris Saint-Germain and a notable drop-off in points compared to last year signal the need for a strategic reset.
Now, all eyes are on what promises to be a transformative summer.
The Berta Era Begins
At the heart of Arsenal’s renewed ambition is newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta.
Having joined from Atletico Madrid in March, Berta is tasked with reshaping the Gunners into serial winners.
Backed by a clear mandate and a wide scouting network, he’ll play a central role in the club’s summer transfer dealings.
Top Priority: A Clinical Striker
Scoring consistency has been a concern, and Arsenal’s primary objective is to secure a top-tier striker.
Three standout names dominate the shortlist:
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United): A fan-favorite target and Arteta’s ideal signing.
Arsenal admires his blend of athleticism and technical prowess.
The Swede is reportedly open to a London move, but his high price tag and Newcastle’s reluctance to sell pose major hurdles.
Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig): The 21-year-old Slovenian has improved his scoring record this season and aligns with Arsenal’s focus on youth and growth potential.
Though Leipzig resisted a January approach, renewed negotiations are expected.
Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting CP): The Swedish striker has exploded with 38 league goals and may represent a more economical option.
However, concerns linger about his ability to replicate that form in England. Berta’s arrival has increased internal support for his signing.
All three forwards are protected by release clauses, but their clubs appear open to negotiation, giving Arsenal flexibility despite budget constraints.
Midfield Reinforcements Underway
Much of Arsenal’s midfield rebuild is already in motion:
Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad): Expected to replace Jorginho, who is set to leave for Flamengo. The deal is nearly finalized and reflects Arsenal’s desire to add composure and control in the center of the park.
Thomas Partey: Initially expected to exit, the Ghanaian midfielder may now stay following Berta’s reassessment. Discussions over a contract extension are ongoing.
Wing Options and Wide Ambitions
In addition to a striker, Arsenal is targeting a dynamic winger to enhance their attacking depth:
Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao): A key target with a €58 million release clause. His signing would require a hefty wage package, potentially making him one of the club’s top earners.
Jamie Bynoe-Gittens (Borussia Dortmund): Also under consideration, especially if Williams proves too costly.
Defensive Solidity: Retain or Reinforce
Stabilizing the defense is a parallel priority. Arsenal aims to secure long-term commitments from its first-choice central pairing:
William Saliba: A subject of Real Madrid interest, Saliba’s future is high-stakes. Keeping him is seen as essential to Arsenal’s ambitions.
Gabriel Magalhães: Attracting attention from Saudi clubs, the Brazilian defender is also in contract talks.
To safeguard against potential departures, Arsenal has explored alternatives like Dean Huijsen (Bournemouth), who has a £50 million release clause, and other unnamed prospects.
Goalkeeping Backup and Squad Depth
- Joan Garcia (Espanyol): The club is in talks to bring in the Spanish keeper as a backup option.
Contract Renewals and Homegrown Focus
Bukayo Saka: Talks are underway to extend the England star’s contract, with the goal of making him one of the highest-paid players in the Premier League.
Myles Lewis-Skelly & Ethan Nwaneri: Arsenal is keen on securing long-term deals for these highly-rated academy graduates, with Berta overseeing negotiations.
Potential Departures and Sale Strategy
To fund incoming transfers, Arsenal is expected to offload several players:
Leandro Trossard: Out of contract in 2025 and attracting interest from Saudi clubs. Arsenal may sell this summer rather than lose him for free next year.
Gabriel Jesus: Injury has delayed exit talks, but the Brazilian forward is no longer untouchable.
Oleksandr Zinchenko & Kieran Tierney: Both left-backs are likely to be moved on.
Loaned Players & Fringe Midfielders: Raheem Sterling returns to Chelsea, while Nuno Tavares, Fabio Vieira, and Albert Lokonga are all expected to leave.
Conclusion: A Make-or-Break Summer
With Champions League football likely and the ambition to bridge the gap to Liverpool and Europe’s elite, Arsenal’s summer transfer window will be pivotal.
