Mikel Arteta’s dream Arsenal lineup for the second half of the season hinges on securing two critical signings during the January transfer window. The Arsenal boss is determined to bolster his squad as the team seeks to reignite their Premier League title ambitions.
Currently trailing Liverpool by six points—who also have a game in hand—Arsenal faces a tough challenge. Injuries have further hindered their progress, prompting Arteta to push for reinforcements to keep his team competitive in the title race.
While the club is expected to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi in the summer, Arteta is focused on acquiring immediate solutions.
One key target for January is a striker. With Gabriel Jesus sidelined due to a significant injury sustained against Manchester United and Kai Havertz managing just seven goals so far, Arsenal’s attack has struggled. Arteta is reportedly eyeing Randal Kolo Muani as a potential solution.
The French forward, currently out of favor at PSG, has proven his scoring ability during his time at Eintracht Frankfurt, making him an attractive option. If signed, Kolo Muani would likely lead the line for Arsenal.
Another priority is securing Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao. The dynamic winger, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, could step into the right-wing position currently vacated by the injured Bukayo Saka. Williams’ pace and creativity would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.
Despite Zubimendi’s summer arrival, Arteta is expected to stick with his current midfield setup for now. Declan Rice and summer signing Mikel Merino could form the defensive midfield partnership, with captain Martin Odegaard operating as the central playmaker.
Defensively, David Raya would continue as the first-choice goalkeeper, backed by a strong backline. Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori could occupy the full-back positions, having overtaken Ben White and Oleksandr Zinchenko in the pecking order.
The central defensive duo of William Saliba and Gabriel remains one of the Premier League’s best, and Arteta is unlikely to disrupt their partnership unless forced by injury.
In Arteta’s ideal lineup, the Gunners would field David Raya; Jurrien Timber, William Saliba, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori; Declan Rice, Mikel Merino, Martin Odegaard; Nico Williams, Randal Kolo Muani, and Gabriel Martinelli. With these reinforcements, Arsenal could revitalize their title charge and strengthen their pursuit of silverware.
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