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Mikel Arteta has revealed Arsenal still plans to make more additions in the summer transfer window, despite making four significant signings already.
The Gunners secured Martin Zubimendi’s €65million ($77M/£56M) arrival in early June and added Noni Madueke’s signing from Chelsea last week. He joins fellow former Blue Kepa Arrizabalaga, who has arrived as back-up for David Raya, while Christian Norgaard’s transfer from Brentford will help bolster Arsenal’s midfield options.
But it’s up front where the London club needs to strengthen, and Arsenal continues to be linked with a move for Viktor Gyokeres. The absence of a no.9 weakened the team’s Premier League title chances last season, as the Gunners finished second for a third season in a row.
Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera is also being linked with a move to the Emirates as Arsenal plots to overthrow Liverpool and steal its Premier League crown this season. Speaking in Singapore on Monday, Arteta admitted the squad isn’t quite ready at this stage of the summer.
“There’s still a long time in the window and we are seeking still,” the Spaniard explained ahead of the friendly against AC Milan on Wednesday.
“In terms of numbers, we are short and we have to improve the depth and the quality of the squad - and we are constantly looking in the market.
“Until that happens, again, focus on the players that we actually have, work with them, and I’m very pleased with what I have seen so far in the first 10 to 15 days.
“It’s like shaking the tree again - bringing new faces, they bring new excitement, new energy as well,” Arteta added.
“We signed very important players as well, and, again, I think everybody feels that the heights have to go to a different level and it’s what we are seeking.”
It’s a summer of change at Arsenal in many senses, and Andrea Berta’s arrival as sporting director means the club’s transfer approach is now headed up by a new man.
“I’m very pleased with the way the club is supporting the necessities and improvements that we required in the team,” Arteta said on the new arrangement.
“I think Andrea and the team are doing an excellent job as well, trying to push everything forward. And there is still a long time to go in that window, but we have still a lot of hopes that we can improve the team and we are going to continue to try and do that.
“I’m very pleased, that is what I would say. There is a lot of parties and a lot of things that we have to bear in mind to get a play over the line and here, but I am very hopeful that we are going to do it very soon.”
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