Arteta Eyes Attacking Reinforcements as Arsenal Chase Premier League Title

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta hints at potential transfer activity to strengthen the team's attacking lineup and boost their Premier League title chances.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has revealed that the club is actively seeking to bolster their attacking options in the January transfer window. While Arteta ruled out the possibility of making a new loan signing, he expressed his desire to add “the right player” to the team's attacking lineup. This comes after the Gunners lost two key players, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, which has resulted in a shortage of goals and options up front.

When asked about the possibility of cutting ties with one of the club's current 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, indicating that the club's focus is on securing a permanent signing. However, Arteta acknowledged that the transfer window may close without a new striker being signed, stating: “That's an option. It depends on the market and many other factors.”

Arteta emphasized the need for reinforcements in the attacking department, citing the loss of Saka and Jesus as a significant blow to the team's goal-scoring capabilities. "Have I ever said no to a striker?" he asked rhetorically. “We lost two very important players in (Bukayo) Saka and (Gabriel) Jesus, we lack goals and options in the front, it's clear. If we can get the right player, that's what we're actively looking at,” Arteta explained, highlighting the club's determination to strengthen their attacking lineup.

Mikel Arteta was asked about the speculation surrounding Arsenal's interest in Wolves striker Matheus Cunha, but he chose not to comment on individual players. “I prefer not to talk about individuals, they have a lot,” he said, instead focusing on the club's general approach to the transfer market.

Arteta discussed the possibility of shifting players out to fund a new addition, emphasizing the importance of balance. “It's all about balance and depending on which player it is,” he explained. “It's not just what you bring and what you sell, it's what resources you have after that.” Arteta also stressed that the team cannot afford to feel sorry for themselves, particularly given the current injury situation. “We cannot feel sorry for ourselves. Certain things, moments we have to elevate our standards,” he said.

Arteta revealed that he sometimes consults his players on potential signings, especially if they have knowledge of the player in question. “Sometimes I consult the players on signings, especially if they know them,” he said. “It's away from the computer and the data, they can sense it, they know about them.” This approach allows Arteta to gain a more nuanced understanding of the player's abilities and potential fit within the team.

Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Wolves, 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,” Arteta said. “He's had a really good impact and it will be a really tough match.” Arteta highlighted the differences in Wolves' approach under Pereira, noting that “structure and the use is different, they have clear principles with and without the ball. Everything is important.”

💬 "He has had a really good impact on the team, and it will be a really tough match tomorrow. They are a really well-coached team, and especially there, they are difficult to beat."

Mikel previews our match with Wolves 👇

— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 24, 2025

When asked about the title race, Arteta emphasized the small margins involved and the importance of staying focused. “Margins are really, really small, you see how things could have gone last weekend,” he said. “Turning points are minimal. We have to be at it, still a long way to go.”

Mikel Arteta provided an update on the injury front, confirming that Myles Lewis-Skelly and William Saliba are expected to return soon. “With Myles, it's nothing serious,” he said. “Today, we will have a meeting with the medical staff. William is something similar. They will definitely be for next week, tomorrow we will see. Ben White is unavailable.”

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