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Arsenal's transfer window run-in could see top talent leave and Real Madrid star sign

Arsenal are flying high at the top of the Premier League table but there could still be changes before the January transfer deadline with potential signings and departures for the Gunners

Dylan James

08:00, 23 Jan 2026

Víctor Valdepeñas

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Víctor Valdepeñas is linked with Arsenal(Image: Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Arsenal are soaring at the summit of the Premier League table, with their first title in over two decades tantalisingly close. The defeat of Manchester City by Manchester United last weekend opened up a golden chance to extend their lead at the top.

However, they failed to fully capitalise on this opportunity, drawing 0-0 in an unexpected result against Nottingham Forest. Now, all eyes are on their upcoming clash with United on Sunday afternoon.

While other clubs may be looking to strengthen their ranks to climb the table, Arsenal, with their settled squad, are likely to have a quieter transfer window.

Still, there could be some movement before the deadline day, most probably in the form of exits from the Emirates Stadium. Football London takes a closer look at what the January transfer window might hold for the Gunners in the coming weeks.

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Potential arrivals

Arda Guler

Dubbed the 'Turkish Messi', the Real Madrid playmaker could be on the move following Xabi Alonso's departure from the Bernabéu. While Mikel Arteta is a long-term admirer of the 20-year-old, a blockbuster switch to north London is currently deemed more likely to materialise in the summer.

Víctor Valdepeñas

The versatile Real Madrid youngster, capable of operating at both left-back and centre-half, has emerged as a key target to provide essential defensive cover for the Gunners. Despite interest from Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen, reports suggest Arsenal are moving quickly to secure the 19-year-old’s signature.

Jeremy Jacquet

Arsenal have shown interest in the 20-year-old Rennes star to bolster the heart of their defence, but they appear to have lost out to their rivals. The Frenchman has reportedly agreed personal terms with Chelsea, making a move to Stamford Bridge far more probable than one to the Emirates.

Potential departures

Ethan Nwaneri

The 18-year-old academy graduate is in advanced talks over a temporary move to Marseille as he searches for regular first-team football. The proposed deal is expected to be a straight loan with no option to buy, ensuring the promising midfielder returns to London better equipped for the first team next season.

Oleksandr Zinchenko

In a surprising turn of events, Oleksandr Zinchenko could be set to leave Arsenal permanently this month. The defender is currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, but it appears his temporary stint could be cut short. Initially, it was expected that Zinchenko would be loaned out to Ajax immediately, but now a bargain permanent move to the Dutch side seems more likely.

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Most probable moves in January

In - no one

Out - Zinchenko and Nwaneri

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