The January transfer window is approaching the halfway point and Arsenal may need more reinforcements than at the start of the month.
The Gunners have long been in need of a new striker, but Gabriel Jesus is expected to be out for a long period after being sent off against Manchester United. That leaves Mikel Arteta even more short of options in the forward positions, while Bukayo Saka is expected until at least March.
However, Arsenal's head coach has so far been cautious about the possibility of bringing in new signings. The Spaniard has instead insisted his side will look at opportunities as they arise.
Mirror Football takes a look at the latest transfer news and rumors surrounding the Emirates.
First offer rejected
Arsenal are keen to secure a striker following the injury of Gabriel Jesus and Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic has been important for north London. The Serbian is being followed by the Gunners and Arsenal are said to have made an initial offer to hire the striker.
However, Juventus quickly rejected the move. The Serie A team is reluctant to let the attacker leave on that basis, while they themselves are too short in front.
According to reports, Juve could be tempted to make a sale or loan with an obligation to sign the player, but at the moment they are not interested in Arsenal's offer. Mikel Arteta's side do not want to go further than a loan due to the interest in Benjamin Sesko in the summer.
Breakthrough in transfer
Arsenal appear to have won the race to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Liverpool attempted to complete a deal for the Spain international this summer but saw the 25-year-old have a late change of heart. The North London side appeared to have proved convincing and reached an advanced stage of the deal.
Arsenal are keen for the player to arrive in the coming weeks, but Sociedad are convinced Zubimendi should stay with them until the summer. Despite the player having a £51 million release clause, Arsenal's limitations on profit and sustainability rules mean La Liga still has a decisive role to play when it comes to payment terms.
Mikel Arteta's transfer reaction
Mikel Arteta has suggested that Gabriel Jesus' injury has not changed Arsenal's approach to the transfer window. However, the 42-year-old made it clear that the Gunners are active in seeking opportunities in the market.
“My answer doesn't change,” he said. “We are actively looking for the market to improve the team. We have been doing that since day one.
“It would be naive not to do that because there is always a chance to evolve the team and improve the squad. Especially with the conditions we have. So yes, we are looking and let's see what we can do .”
“When you recruit a player there are three parties and you have to agree,” he added. “And we have our limitations just like any other club. We can do what we can do. We plan our squad and have our limits to do what we want to do, that's all.”
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