Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are reportedly gearing up for a significant spending spree in the upcoming January transfer window in order to address concerns over injuries and squad depth. As the Gunners navigate a challenging season, sitting at the summit of the Premier League and competing on multiple fronts, they are evaluating five potential targets to bolster their squad.
The North London club has been no stranger to high-profile signings in recent years, having invested approximately £250m in the summer to assemble a squad capable of contending for top honours. Key additions such as Viktor Gyokeres, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze have played an instrumental role in the club’s stellar start to the 2025/26 campaign. Arsenal’s impressive 18-game unbeaten streak from August through December sees them well-poised for automatic qualification to the Champions League knockout stages while remaining competitive in the Carabao Cup.
However, the team’s recent form has shown signs of wavering, with dropped points against Sunderland, Chelsea, and Aston Villa, and a lacklustre performance in their narrow 2-1 victory against Wolves. The dip has largely been attributed to mounting injury woes, prompting the club to consider reinforcing both their midfield and defensive options.
In particular, Arteta’s side is reported to have four defensive options on their watchlist, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi — who is also a target for Liverpool — emerging as a prominent candidate. Guehi’s contract runs until 2026, and his acquisition could provide much-needed solidity to Arsenal’s backline.
Further Arsenal coverage reveals that the Gunners are eyeing Rennes’ talented young centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, while also keeping tabs on Portuguese prospect Ousmane Diomande, currently attracting interest from Chelsea and Crystal Palace. Additionally, Eintracht Frankfurt’s versatile left-back Nathaniel Brown is being considered for his ability to cover multiple positions across both defence and midfield.
Turning to midfield reinforcements, Lille’s coveted wonderkid Ayyoub Bouaddi has been highlighted as a priority target. The central midfield position has been a point of concern, with Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi shouldering significant responsibilities so far this season. It is noted that Arsenal face stiff competition from Chelsea and other prominent clubs for Bouaddi’s signature.
As the January window approaches, Arsenal’s ambition to sustain their competition on all fronts is evident in their preparatory moves to secure these potential signings.