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Arsenal's first January transfer decided with £17m release clause ready to be triggered

Arsenal have the deepest squad in the Premier League, potentially in all of world football, but that might not stop Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta from strengthening further. The Gunners are only likely to enter the January market, which is now open, for an exceptional opportunity.

But repeated injuries throughout the first half of the season may prompt Arsenal to reconsider their transfer approach. Pressure has been ramped up on the league leaders, with many insisting that they have no excuse for not ending up as champions. Here, Express Sport has taken a look at the first piece of business the Gunners should do to ensure they are in place to finish the campaign with significant silverware...

Jack McEachen - Kenan Yildiz

The left side of Arsenal's attack is its weakest link, despite impressive performances from Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli this season.

Juventus' Kenan Yildiz would provide a versatile option that further bolsters Mikel Arteta's frontline. He is a target of Liverpool and Chelsea, but at this point, Arsenal would be a more attractive proposition.

And he continues to stall on a new contract in Turin...

The Turkish forward could be the missing piece of the puzzle to get Arsenal over the line in both the Premier League and Champions League.

Charlie Malam - Rodrigo Mendoza

Once Arsenal's injured defenders all return, the depth at the back is outstanding. But perhaps in central midfield the Gunners could do with another body - but crucially a player who can be a part of the long-term plans.

Step forward Elche's Rodrigo Mendoza.

The 20-year-old Spain youth international has already been scouted by Arsenal and has a £17million release clause. A technical and creative midfield player, Mendoza specialises in carrying the ball and taking on opponents. He is still raw and has a lot of developing to do, especially out of possession, but could be a potential gem they could mould into their next No.10.

Tom Parsons - Jeremy Jacquet

Arsenal have been forced to contend with a defensive crisis this season, with the majority of their backline spending periods on the sidelines at various times throughout the campaign.

And the Gunners could bolster their defence by bringing in Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who has been tipped to have a bright future at the top of the game.

Mikel Arteta’s side reportedly registered their interest in the 20-year-old in the summer. And his physical prowess could see him become a huge success in the Premier League.

Archie Griggs - Givairo Read

The league leaders could do with signing another right-back to provide quality cover for Jurrien Timber. They already have Ben White but he can't be relied upon to stay fit, with his injuries often leaving Timber as the only option.

Arsenal could benefit from a move for Read, who is excelling at Feyenoord and would be able to challenge for a starting spot in the coming years. He is only 19 and appears to be destined for the top.

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