Mikel Arteta has opened the door to a potential January signing for Arsenal but insists any new arrival must be a transformative addition to the squad.
As the Gunners chase Liverpool at the summit of the Premier League, six points adrift, and remain active in multiple competitions, Arteta is clear about the type of player he wants.
“We’re only looking at players who can make an instant impact,” Arteta said, addressing the possibility of a winter transfer. “Bringing bodies in for the sake of it doesn’t help.
It’s about adding someone who brings something unique to the team. That’s incredibly difficult in this market.”
Arsenal’s squad has been stretched thin by competing on four fronts: the Premier League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Champions League. Injuries to key players, including Bukayo Saka and Ben White, have added to the challenge.
This weekend, Arsenal host Manchester United in a blockbuster FA Cup third-round clash, having already faced a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle in the Carabao Cup semi-final first leg earlier this week.
The injuries have prompted discussions with Arsenal’s hierarchy about reinforcing the squad. “We always have conversations about improving the team, whether the market is open or closed,” Arteta explained. “Right now, it’s about addressing immediate needs while planning for the medium and long term.”
Arsenal have been linked to several forwards to cover for Saka, sidelined until March. Newcastle’s red-hot striker Alexander Isak, with 10 goals in his last nine games, seems out of reach due to his high price tag.
Meanwhile, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, and even Manchester United’s outcast Marcus Rashford are reportedly on Arsenal’s radar.
Arteta remains cautious but open to a move. “The circumstances have changed with these injuries,” he admitted. “If the right opportunity arises—someone who makes us much better—we’ll be ready.”