Arsenal are expected to be among the quieter Premier League clubs in the upcoming January transfer window. Having splashed out approximately £250million to bolster their squad depth in the summer, it's evident that there's limited room for additional manoeuvres.
This could potentially lead to more departures than arrivals at the Emirates, but it doesn't imply that the Gunners are dormant in the market. Quite the opposite, as Andrea Berta's fresh strategy seems to focus on securing promising young talents for the future. In line with this approach, the latest transfer scheme reportedly being devised by the director involves a double raid on AC Milan's youth ranks.
According to Calciomercato, Arsenal have set their sights on Davide Bartesaghi and Lorenzo Torriani, with plans to make a move in due course.
The duo are highly-rated prospects tipped for bright futures, aligning perfectly with Arsenal's revamped transfer blueprint. Bartesaghi, a teenage left-back, has already made his mark in AC Milan's first team this season.
The young defender has chalked up 11 league appearancs, scoring twice in his handful of outings so far this term. Capable of slotting into central defence, a versatility that Mikel Arteta appreciates, Bartesaghi is contracted to the Rossoneri until 2030 following an extension earlier this year.
Meanwhile, goalkeeper Torriani has already made a name for himself with two appearances for AC Milan, one in the Champions League and another in the Italian Cup. Goalkeepers often mature later in their careers, but his early exposure to top-flight football shows promise.
Arsenal's recent heavy spending on prime-age players like Viktor Gyokeres and Eberechi Eze has indicated a shift in strategy towards securing immediate impact players while also investing in future prospects. This approach is evident in several completed deals.
In recent weeks, Arsenal confirmed they have secured the signatures of Ecuadorian twins Edwin and Holger Quintero from Independiente Del Valle, a clear nod to their long-term vision.
The talented duo won't join until 2027 when they turn 18, but they are already being tipped for greatness. And they aren't the only young talents on Arsenal's radar.
The north Londoners have also announced a pre-agreement to sign Victor Ozhianvuna from Shamrock Rovers. Like the Quinteros, he will join the Gunners in 2027 upon turning 18.
This strategy could potentially make Arsenal more sustainable in the transfer market regarding their overall expenditure. While they have invested heavily, there may come a time when the club is expected to balance its books through its transfer dealings.
Sales have been a point of contention for the club in recent seasons, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain still holding the record from his departure to Liverpool.
When compared to their fiercest rivals, it's evident that much more work needs to be done, particularly if they wish to match the necessary spending.
Securing these young talents early can provide some bargains for the future, while also presenting an opportunity to make a future profit in the market.