Arsenal are keen to bolster Mikel Arteta’s squad this summer, but they may struggle to attract the calibre of player they wanted with the likelihood of no European football.
Sitting tenth in the Premier League standings, the Gunners missed their chance to qualify for the Champions League after losing over two legs to Villarreal in the Europa League semi-final.
After a 2-1 defeat in the first leg, they were held to a goalless draw at the Emirates which ended their European dream in disappointing style.
Champions League qualification would have unlocked new doors for recruitment and budget, with additional sources of revenues much sought after.
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Despite that, here’s a look at how Arsenal could line up if they complete several important summer deals.
Goalkeeper
Bernd Leno’s form has been patchy, at times, this season but he remains the club’s clear number one. Mat Ryan will return to Brighton & Hove Albion on loan in the summer and it remains to be seen if his deal with be made permanent. If not, a new number two will have to be acquired.
Defence
A right-sided centre-back wouldn’t go a miss to partner Gabriel, with David Luiz out of contract. Rob Holding and Callum Chamber have deputised in that position though.
Right-back remains an area to improve despite Hector Bellerin and Cedric Soares, and Brighton defender Tariq Lamptey could be targeted in that role. The Englishman impressed earlier in the season but has been restricted by injuries in 2021.
At left-back, a deputy for Kieran Tierney is needed, with Granit Xhaka forced to fill in during the Scotland international’s absence.
Midfield
Thomas Partey will benefit from a full pre-season at Arsenal which should help eradicate his injury problems.
Dani Ceballos looks like to return to Real Madrid and could be replaced by another Brighton man, Yves Bissouma.
The all-action Malian is attracting interest from several Premier League clubs, with Liverpool reportedly keen to sign the 24-year-old to replace Gini Wijnaldum.
football.london were told that ‘he loves the Premier League’ and would love to play for the Gunners over any other club.
Emile Smith Rowe will provide the spark from midfield in his favoured number 10 role.
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Attack
Another wide player is definitely on the agenda for Arsenal to ease the creative burden on Bukayo Saka and Smith Rowe.
Norwich City’s promotion could dent their hopes of signing Emiliano Buendia. The Argentine netted 14 goals and registered 16 assists as he was named Championship Player of the Year.
Norwich may be tempted to part company with Buendia if there is interest from the players’ side.
Saka remains a key player for the team, whilst Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang would lead the line.
Arsenal dream XI (4-3-3-): Leno; Lamptey, Holding, Gabriel, Tierney; Bissouma, Partey, Smith Rowe; Buendia, Aubameyang, Saka.