Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal want more signings before the transfer window closes as the Premier League champions continue to look for opportunities to strengthen their squad.
The Arsenal manager was speaking after Sunday’s 3-2 Emirates Cup defeat by Borussia Dortmund, when his side conceded three goals for the second successive pre-season match.
Asked whether further additions could arrive, Arteta replied: “Well, that’s what we’re trying to do.”
He added that Arsenal would move if the right player became available and could significantly improve the squad. Hayters carried Arteta’s full post-match update, which also included fitness news on William Saliba and Jurrien Timber.
Arsenal have already been active in the market this summer, with Bruno Guimarães becoming the latest major addition after completing his move from Newcastle United.
Christos Tzolis, Piero Hincapié and Illan Meslier have also strengthened Arteta’s options, but Sunday’s performance underlined why the manager is prepared to make further changes.
ReadArsenal’s match report detailed how Borussia Dortmund exposed Arsenal during the 3-2 defeat, particularly during a first half in which the visitors established a two-goal lead.
Arteta stopped short of identifying a particular position when asked whether another defender could arrive.
That is significant given Arsenal’s current fitness problems. Saliba remains sidelined with a back injury, while Timber is progressing in his recovery but is still expected to be unavailable for several weeks.
Arteta instead stressed that defending remains a collective responsibility and said the current group must improve.
Arsenal still have time to act before the window closes, and the manager’s comments make clear that their summer business is not necessarily finished.
The next addition, however, will only arrive if Arsenal believe the player represents a meaningful upgrade rather than simply adding another body to the squad.
WATCH: Arsenal v Dortmund highlights from 3-2 Emirates Cup defeat
WATCH: Arsenal v Dortmund highlights from 3-2 Emirates Cup defeat
3 things learned from Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund
3 things learned from Arsenal’s 3-2 defeat to Borussia Dortmund