Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has openly acknowledged the need for reinforcements, saying the club is “short on numbers” as they intensify their efforts in the summer transfer market. Speaking during Arsenal’s pre-season tour in Singapore, the Spaniard said the focus remains on improving the depth and quality of the squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.
“In terms of numbers, we are short and we have to improve the depth and quality of the squad,” Arteta told reporters. “We are constantly looking in the market. Until that happens, we focus on the players we have – and I’m very pleased with what I’ve seen in the last 10 to 15 days.”
Despite assembling a 30-man squad for the Asia tour, Arteta emphasized the need to bring in more players to compete at the highest level, particularly with a busy domestic and European schedule looming.
£123.5m Spent Already, But Arsenal Not Done Yet
Arsenal have already made bold moves in the transfer window, completing deals worth approximately £123.5 million. The Gunners have secured the services of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea, defensive midfielder Christian Norgaard from Brentford, and winger Noni Madueke from Chelsea.
Arteta welcomed the new arrivals, describing their presence as a breath of fresh air. “New faces… they bring new excitement, new energy as well. We signed very important players. I think everybody feels that the heights have to go to a different level, and that’s what we are seeking,” he said.
The latest signings bolster key areas in midfield and attack, while Kepa’s arrival adds experience to the goalkeeper position amid uncertainty surrounding Aaron Ramsdale’s future at the club.
Gyokeres and Mosquera Targets as Talks Continue
Despite their early transfer activity, Arsenal are far from finished. Negotiations are ongoing for Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP in a deal worth 73.5 million euros (£63.5m). Arteta declined to confirm details of the potential move but did not rule out the possibility of new arrivals joining the squad while on tour.
“I cannot comment on any player who is not part of our group yet,” Arteta said when pressed about the 27-year-old forward. “When we have something concrete to offer in any case to any player, we will do that.”
In addition to Gyokeres, Arsenal are also working to secure 19-year-old central defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia. The club sees the young Spaniard as a long-term investment who could provide depth and development potential in a defensive unit that was stretched thin last season.
Asia Tour Continues Amid Transfer Buzz
As Arsenal continue their pre-season campaign, they are set to face AC Milan and Newcastle United in Singapore before travelling to Hong Kong to take on rivals Tottenham Hotspur. The tour presents a valuable opportunity for Arteta to assess his squad and integrate new signings into the team’s tactical setup.
The manager hinted that while transfers remain a priority, the focus for now is building chemistry and sharpening match fitness. “We have to shake the tree again,” he said. “New energy and new challenges are what will push this team forward.”
The Gunners’ pre-season performances will be closely watched by fans and analysts eager to see how the new-look squad gels and how quickly further reinforcements might arrive.
Fans Hope for Final Push Before Deadline Day
With over a month remaining in the summer transfer window, Arsenal supporters are hopeful the club can land Gyokeres and Mosquera to complete what is shaping up to be a transformative summer. After narrowly missing out on the Premier League title last season, there is growing belief that Arteta’s side could mount a stronger challenge in 2025.
The Arsenal hierarchy, led by sporting director Edu Gaspar, is believed to be working round the clock to back Arteta’s vision with the necessary signings. For now, the manager remains optimistic but measured.
“There’s still a long time in the window and we are seeking still,” Arteta said. “Let’s see how we can strengthen further. The ambition is clear – we want to compete on all fronts.”
