Arsenal’s November planning window has arrived with a familiar blend of ambition and internal reflection. With the team sitting top of the Premier League after 11 games and boasting a perfect Champions League record from four matches, the club’s decision makers are using this period to set the direction for the next two transfer windows. Yet among the contract discussions and squad planning, the biggest storyline is the manager himself.
ESPN’s detailed report outlines how Mikel Arteta continues to hold a central role in all long-term strategy conversations. His comment on Oct. 31 summarised the mood, when he said, “The ownership was here. We spent some very good time with Josh and the board talking about different things.” That engagement reinforces how pivotal he remains to Arsenal’s trajectory.
Arteta’s Contract Becomes the Defining Question
The article states that “there has been no indication yet that Arsenal are ready to hold talks with Arteta over a new contract” even though he is edging towards the final 18 months of his deal. Historically, he has preferred to avoid negotiations until late in the cycle, viewing them as a distraction. It appears he may follow that pattern again.
Arsenal are expected to push for an extension beyond 2027 given the progress he has overseen. This includes the tactical evolution of the side, improved Champions League performances and a domestic consistency not seen since the 2003-04 title season. ESPN say one source familiar with the internal discussions said the club view Arteta as “the anchor around which this phase of the project is built”, reflecting how vital his commitment is considered.
Contract Momentum for Saka and Timber
While Arteta’s future is unresolved, negotiations with key players are more advanced. ESPN reports that Bukayo Saka’s new deal is close, with the winger set to become the club’s highest-paid player on more than £300,000 per week. His status as one of Europe’s most influential attackers strengthens the urgency of the agreement.
Photo IMAGO
Jurriën Timber is also in line for improved terms. His contract runs until 2028, but the club want to reward what ESPN call his “excellent recent form”. Arteta is known to value players who help execute his positional play with precision, and Timber has emerged as a central component of that philosophy.
Possible Outgoings and Market Options
Arsenal spent around £250 million in the summer and remain cautious about trimming too deeply. Gabriel Jesus is nearing full fitness after knee surgery, yet Viktor Gyökeres has established himself as the focal point of the attack. With Kai Havertz also returning soon, Jesus may struggle for minutes. ESPN highlight that the World Cup next summer could influence his thinking, as “Brazil’s No. 9 role is up for grabs”.
Ben White may also face a crossroads as Timber’s ascendancy reduces his minutes, while Oleksandr Zinchenko’s loan at Nottingham Forest could prompt a January decision if Sean Dyche does not use him.
Interest in Real Madrid forward Rodrygo remains alive, although his arrival would reshape the roles of Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli. Trossard’s new contract without an extension hints at flexibility, while Martinelli will enter the final year of his deal next summer.
Arsenal will decide shortly whether January requires reinforcement or restraint, with Arteta’s voice central to that final call.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
Supporters reading ESPN’s report will inevitably focus on one issue above all others, the manager’s contract situation. Fans are invested in the stability he has created and many will worry that entering the final 18 months without clear progress introduces avoidable uncertainty. Arteta has restored the competitive identity of the club and with Arsenal top of the table, maintaining continuity feels more important than ever.
The Saka news brings reassurance, particularly as he is already one of Europe’s elite performers. The expectation that he will earn more than £300,000 per week reflects his status and few fans will argue with that valuation. Timber being rewarded also fits the wider narrative of growth under Arteta. Supporters appreciate the way he has changed the right side of the pitch and how quickly he has adapted tactically.
Concerns will grow around Gabriel Jesus, Martinelli and Trossard. Fans understand the need for depth but will not want to lose too many influential figures in one cycle. The Rodrygo link brings excitement, but it also creates questions about whether Arsenal risk overcomplicating their attacking rotations.