Arsenal latest: Pep Guardiola lays down the gauntlet as Mikel Arteta set for transfer boost

Arsenal are set to benefit from an unexpected 'gift' in the January transfer window, while Mikel Arteta has been sent a warning by a familiar face heading into the Christmas period

Arsenal appear poised to showcase their transfer acumen through a deal involving a player who's no longer with the club. Hot on the heels of their 3-0 Champions League victory over Club Brugge, the Gunners already have a potential profit lined up for next month.

This comes as Nuno Tavares could be heading for the exit at Lazio, with a significant suitor already lining up for his signature. A particularly lucrative sell-on clause would see the Gunners pocket a substantial portion of any fee.

However, it's not all rosy at the Emirates following a stern warning from Pep Guardiola to former protégé Mikel Arteta. And football.london brings you some of the latest headlines from north London as Arsenal gear up to host Wolves on Saturday.

Pep Guardiola issues Gunners warning

As though a 2-1 comeback victory at Real Madrid wasn't sufficient demonstration of intent, Guardiola has left no ambiguity whatsoever. His message is clear: if you believe Manchester City appear formidable now, just wait a couple of months.

Arsenal's recent defeat to Aston Villa helped narrow the gap at the Premier League summit back to only two points. City manager Guardiola has cautioned the competition that his team are prepared to fulfil their potential during the forthcoming months.

"We are [far] away," the City manager told TNT Sports during his post-match interview. "Still we are not ready. In February, we will be better.

"We have been here in the past, playing much than today, and we have lost. That's football sometimes. The players made an incredible effort, it was an incredibly good result, the spirit is unbelievable, but there are still margins to improve."

This could be a daunting prospect for the rest of England's top-tier teams, especially considering key players like Rodri and John Stones have barely had a look-in this season. As Arsenal fans can attest from recent seasons, a strong start doesn't guarantee maintaining the lead as the season progresses.

Arsenal ready for January transfer 'gift'

Tavares didn't make a big impact at Arsenal and registered his last appearance for the club back in May 2022. But nearly four years on, the Portugal international could be set to earn his former club a hefty sum if he leaves Lazio next month.

The 25-year-old joined the Eagles in 2024 after a successful loan stint but has failed to impress this season. The left-back was even jeered during Lazio's home draw against Bologna on Sunday, where he was substituted at half-time.

Il Messaggero note that Arsenal possess a substantial 40% sell-on clause in the player's contract, which extends until 2029. While Lazio president Claudio Lotito has suggested there won't be any significant exits from the Stadio Olimpico next month, Tavares remains one name who could be entertained.

Furthermore, it's suggested the player has already provided his consent to one Saudi club expressing interest. Discussions have allegedly occurred between intermediaries seeking to complete a winter transfer.

Arsenal didn't quite recoup their £8million outlay when they sold Tavares to Lazio last year. Nevertheless, Saudi clubs have demonstrated they can frequently pay premium prices to secure deals, and any windfall would be welcome midway through the season.