Defender Riccardo Calafiori has backed Arsenal’s moves for Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.
The Gunners are looking to strengthen their midfield this summer and are close to completing the signing of Guimaraes. The Brazilian has already undergone his medical and signed a four-year deal.
Arsenal are also targeting Vinicius to add more quality to the left flank after signing Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge.
However, the north London side are unlikely to sign the Brazilian winger, who is now close to extending his contract at Madrid.
Speaking to the media after Arsenal’s 3-1 pre-season friendly defeat to Real Betis, Calafiori suggested that Arsenal need players such as Vinicius and Guimaraes need to defend their Premier League title.
“We are on that level now. We are on top. We want to win the league again; we want to be even better than last season if we can. We need these kinds of players, I think.”
Calafiori’s comments mirror the opinion of several supporters, who are demanding quality reinforcements this summer.
Tzolis is the major signing so far, although Guimaraes is expected to officially become an Arsenal player soon.
The north London side must continue their search for a quality left winger even if they miss out on Vinicius.
Tzolis has shown positive signs in pre-season, but it remains to be seen whether he will hit the ground running when the season starts.
Martinelli was inconsistent last season, raising doubts over whether he can rediscover his best form next term. The 25-year-old may even leave the Gunners this summer.
Mikel Arteta’s side will conclude their pre-season preparations on home soil.
Arsenal will face Borussia Dortmund in the Emirates Cup final and Cesc Fabregas’ Como side before taking on Manchester City in the Community Shield on August 16.