Arsenalβs activity in the January transfer window is expected to be limited, as reports suggest the club has its sights set on strengthening the squad for the 2025 season rather than making immediate moves.
Despite their history of signing players during the winter window, such as Jorginho and Leandro Trossard, this January appears to be shaping up differently.
The Gunners experienced a challenging start to the season due to an injury crisis but have since regained form and climbed back into contention.
Currently sitting in fourth place in the Premier League, Arsenal trails leaders Liverpool by nine points.
Although the club is eager to close the gap at the top, ESPN reports that they are unlikely to make significant moves during the January window unless another injury crisis arises.
Instead, the focus will be on gearing up for what could be a busy summer transfer period.
Arsenalβs long-term plans reportedly include bolstering their attack, with particular attention to securing reinforcements for their forward line.
The Athletic reveals that the club is targeting a new striker and a winger to provide solid backup for Bukayo Saka.
Among the players being considered are Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP and Newcastle Unitedβs Alexander Isak.
Gyokeres, who has been in impressive form, could be available for a fee of around β¬70 million (Β£58.2 million).
In contrast, Isak, whose stock has risen significantly, is expected to cost nearly double that amount.
In addition to attacking reinforcements, Arsenal is eyeing a younger midfield to prepare for the eventual departure of veterans Jorginho and Thomas Partey.
Although the recent signing of Mikel Merino adds quality to the squad, his age of 28 does not significantly reduce the average age of the midfield unit.
The club is therefore keen on identifying younger talents who can form a core for the future.
Another area of focus is the goalkeeping department.
Arsenal is reportedly planning to bring in at least one new goalkeeper to compete with David Raya.
The backup option, Neto, is currently on loan from Bournemouth, and the club already had intentions of signing a high-quality third-choice keeper during the last summer transfer window.
While Arsenalβs January activity may be quiet, their ambitions for the summer are clear.
The club is preparing to make strategic moves to strengthen key areas and ensure Mikel Artetaβs side remains competitive at the highest level.