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Arsenal remain top of the Premier League despite being held to a 2-2 draw against Sunderland but recent injuries could lead to the Gunners looking for reinforcements in January
Arsenal experienced a late sting in their 2-2 draw with high-flying Sunderland but head into the international break firmly at the top of the Premier League. The Gunners hold a four-point lead over Manchester City.
Mikel Arteta's squad conceded ground in the title race after Brian Brobbey's stoppage-time equaliser at the Stadium of Light on Saturday. Players are now off to represent their respective countries, with a north London derby against Tottenham next on Arsenal's agenda.
Despite strengthening their ranks this summer with the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze, given the current injury issues, the prospect of signing a forward in January is not off the table.
The club has been associated with an AC Milan star valued at £85million for some time and a fresh update has been provided regarding his future. football.london delivers the latest news from the Emirates, including a post-Sunderland meeting and a title-race agreement being reached.
Rafael Leao transfer update
Portuguese winger Rafael Leao has reportedly been on Arsenal's radar for some time. He was linked with a move to the Premier League this summer but remained in Italy.
The 26-year-old has netted four goals in his last five Serie A appearances but new information suggests that while a new contract has been hinted at, the club remains open to a sale.
Matteo Moretto reports that AC Milan could offer Leao a new two to three-year contract extension soon. His current deal expires in 2028.
However, they maintain their position that should an adequate offer arrive for their star striker, they would be willing to enter discussions. Current valuations place Leao at approximately £85m, which keeps the possibility alive for a potential move from Arsenal.
Arsenal meeting following Sunderland stalemate
One notable aspect from Arsenal's stalemate with Sunderland was the positioning of the advertising boards. The Black Cats relocated their hoardings nearer to the Stadium of Light turf than customary, which restricted the space available to Arsenal players for lengthy throw-ins.
Questions have been posed regarding this modification and its possible effect on player welfare. Speaking on BeIN Sports, Richard Keys suggests that Arsenal will convene a discussion about these risks.
He said: "It's very clear the purpose of having done that, as long as there's a metre between the touchline and the hoarding. But that might be endangering the well-being of those on the football pitch. I know there's a meeting at Arsenal tomorrow to discuss.
"No rules have been broken, Sunderland are well within their rights, but I'm not sure. On the one hand it's very smart, it's a talking point and it did go unnoticed by Arsenal and it was a subject of conversation after they'd left the ground yesterday so we'll wait for developments on that."
Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane share common ground
The Gunners did concede ground in the title race following their stalemate with Sunderland. City delivered a commanding performance on Sunday as they thrashed Liverpool 3-0, leaving them trailing Arsenal by just four points.
Manchester United legends Wayne Rooney and Roy Keane both believe Arteta's side will be sensing the heat after City's emphatic victory. Keane told Sky Sports: "I think Arsenal will have looked at that and thought: 'Do you know what, the signs are good for Man City'."
Rooney commented on his podcast: "I know Arsenal dropped points at the weekend but you look at their form overall and the way Man City are coming into a great run, it will be difficult for Liverpool.
"But it's still early in the season so you never know. I just think Arsenal and Man City are the two favourites now. Arsenal will be a little bit nervous about Man City coming up but I think it will be one of them two. I still probably edge towards Arsenal. I have Arsenal as slight favourites."
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