Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and the club’s leadership are gearing up for the rapidly approaching January transfer window.
While Arsenal remains ready to seize any opportunities that arise, Arteta has emphasized that he does not expect the month to be particularly eventful.
The previous January transfer window saw no new signings for Arsenal, and a similar scenario seems likely in 2025 unless circumstances change.
Arteta has expressed his hope that the squad will be in a better position in the coming weeks, allowing the club to make decisions based on the evolving situation.
However, updates surrounding Thomas Partey and the possibility of signing a striker have already begun to take shape.
One key storyline involves Thomas Partey, whose contract with Arsenal expires at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
There has been little progress in discussions over a contract extension, sparking speculation about his future.
This situation could allow foreign clubs to approach Partey in January to negotiate a pre-contract agreement for a summer move.
Arsenal, meanwhile, is said to be exploring potential replacements for the Ghanaian midfielder.
Among the names linked to the club is 22-year-old Lucien Agoumé, currently playing for Sevilla.
A product of Inter Milan’s academy, Agoumé has garnered attention for his nearly 100 senior appearances and potential to perform at the top level.
Should Arsenal decide to part ways with Partey, it would bring an end to his more than three-year stint at the club.
Despite injury setbacks, Partey has played a versatile role in Arteta’s plans, even filling in as a full-back amid defensive injuries.
However, the general consensus suggests that Arsenal may look to younger talent to align with their long-term vision. Alongside Agoumé, other names like Martin Zubimendi have also been mentioned as potential replacements for Partey.
Another significant development centers on Arsenal’s interest in strengthening their attacking options. Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani has emerged as a potential target.
The French international has struggled for form since his move from Eintracht Frankfurt, where he impressed with 16 Bundesliga goals, to PSG.
Speculation about Kolo Muani’s future intensified when he was excluded from PSG’s squad for a recent match against Monaco.
Arsenal could explore the possibility of a loan deal with an option to buy, allowing them to evaluate his performance before committing to a permanent transfer.
However, Arsenal may prefer to avoid an obligation to buy, as it could hinder their summer transfer plans if Kolo Muani does not meet expectations.
A straightforward loan deal would present a low-risk opportunity to assess the striker’s form.
Arteta’s coaching could help Kolo Muani rediscover his goal-scoring touch, potentially adding a dynamic edge to Arsenal’s attack.
As the January transfer window nears, Arsenal’s focus will likely balance short-term needs with long-term goals.
The futures of players like Partey and potential signings such as Kolo Muani will be pivotal in shaping the squad for the rest of the season.
While Arteta has downplayed expectations of significant activity, the club’s readiness to act on unexpected opportunities remains clear.
With injury concerns and the challenge of maintaining their competitive edge in both domestic and European competitions, Arsenal may need to make strategic decisions during this window.
Fans and analysts will be closely watching how the club navigates the market, as the moves made in January could have a lasting impact on Arsenal’s aspirations for success in 2025.