Arsenal Transfer News: Arteta Provides Update on Potential January Signings

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirms the club's interest in signing a new striker in the January transfer window.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that the club is actively looking to bolster their attacking options in the January transfer window. However, Arteta has ruled out making a new loan signing before the market shuts. When asked about the possibility of cutting loose one of his loanees, such as Raheem Sterling or Neto, to make room for a new temporary addition, Arteta was firm in his response. “We're not thinking about that,” he said.

Arteta acknowledged that the transfer market can be unpredictable, and it's possible that Arsenal may not sign a new striker before the window closes. “That's an option. It depends on the market and many other factors,” he explained. Arteta emphasized the need for a new striker, given the team's recent injury woes. “Have I ever said no to a striker?” he asked rhetorically.

Arteta highlighted the impact of losing key players Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, which has resulted in a lack of goals and options upfront. “We lost two very important players in (Bukayo) Saka and (Gabriel) Jesus, we lack goals and options in the front, it's clear,” he said. Despite the challenges, Arteta remains hopeful of signing the right player to bolster Arsenal's attacking lineup. “If we can get the right player, that's what we're actively looking at,” he stated.

Mikel Arteta was asked about the speculation surrounding Arsenal's interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Matheus Cunha. Arteta chose not to comment on individual players, saying, “I prefer not to talk about individuals, they have a lot.” This response suggests that Arteta is not willing to fuel speculation about potential transfers.

Arteta discussed the possibility of shifting players out to fund a new addition to the squad. He emphasized the importance of balance, stating, “It's all about balance and depending on which player it is. It's not just what you bring and what you sell, it's what resources you have after that.” Arteta also highlighted the need for the team to adapt to challenging situations, saying, “We cannot feel sorry for ourselves. Certain things, moments we have to elevate our standards.”

Arteta revealed that he sometimes consults with players about potential signings, particularly if they have knowledge of the player in question. He explained, “Sometimes I consult the players on signings, especially if they know them. It's away from the computer and the data, they can sense it, they know about them.” This approach suggests that Arteta values the insights of his players in the transfer process.

Turning his attention to the upcoming match against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Arteta acknowledged the challenge posed by the team's new manager, Vitor Pereira. “He's been in for a few weeks already, we know him and his ideas. He's had a really good impact, and it will be a really tough match,” Arteta said. He also highlighted the differences in Wolverhampton's style under Pereira, noting, “Structure and the use is different, they have clear principles with and without the ball. Everything is important.”

Fighting until the end ✊ pic.twitter.com/SwoBqqeRFY

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 24, 2025

Arteta was also asked about the title race, and he emphasized the small margins between the top teams. “Margins are really, really small, you see how things could have gone last weekend. Turning points are minimal. We have to be at it, still a long way to go,” he said. This comment suggests that Arteta is aware of the intense competition for the title and the need for his team to remain focused.

On the injury front, Arteta provided updates on several players. He reported that Myles Lewis-Skelly's injury is not serious, saying, “With Myles, it's nothing serious. Today, we will have a meeting with the medical staff.” Arteta also mentioned that William Saliba's injury is similar, and both players are expected to be available next week. However, Ben White will be unavailable for the match.

Finally, Arteta praised the form of attacking duo Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard. “They've made another step forward, more impacting the game. Great asset to have, they are really important. The fight that both of them are in gives us a good threat,” he said. This comment highlights the importance of Martinelli and Trossard to Arsenal's attacking lineup.