Arsenal could be set for a huge midfield overhaul this summer with a total of four transfers completed. The Gunners are in need of additions across the pitch, but it is the engine room that is in need of changes despite the recent arrivals of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino.
Injures in attack have significantly impacted Mikel Arteta this season and that has played a big role in their mixed form over the last few months. However, when all of his options are fit and available, Arsenal have a powerful frontline which perhaps just needs one more addition.
Though Kai Havertz has shined up top, signing an elite-level and natural striker should be a priority with Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko under consideration. Midfield moves are perhaps more important though with several outgoings expected.
Jorginho and Thomas Partey are both out of contract this summer with that potential double departure leaving Arsenal very light in that area of the pitch. As two defensive midfielders, more than one replacement could be required and that appears to be what the Gunners are after.
According to Spanish outlet AS, incoming sporting director Andrea Berta is working tirelessly to sign Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes and Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad as part of his 'summer revolution'. Both players have been linked to Arsenal in recent trading periods with the latter said to be on his way to north London.
Having previously turned down moves to Liverpool, Barcelona and Bayern Munich, Arsenal have seemingly won the race for his signature. As for Guimaraes, there is firm interest in the Brazil international from Arsenal, Manchester City and other clubs in Europe.
However, given his importance to Eddie Howe, it is very likely the Magpies will demand a significant fee to allow his departure. Both joining would leave Arteta with quite the team selection dilemma as both operate at the base of midfield.
Given his Premier League experience, Guimaraes starting off in that role would be the expectation with Rice remaining further forward. Arteta's favoured team more or less picks itself with the addition of Guimaraes very welcome while Zubimendi provides excellent cover.
Possible starting XI: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Timber; Guimaraes, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Havertz, Martinelli.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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