By Martin Graham
For arsenalthe focus remains firmly on the present as they chase a first Premier League title in 22 years and head for a Champions League semi-final. Mikel Arteta’s philosophy of “trusting the process” is nearing full validation, but no success this season is seen internally as the end point of the project.
Instead, next summer is being treated as an opportunity to build momentum, regardless of how the campaign ends. Central to this outlook is Arteta’s own situation, with his current contract about to enter its final year, prompting the need for clarity over his long-term future.
The first talks between the club and the manager have already taken place and are described as positive. However, with so much at stake on the pitch, both sides have agreed to return to negotiations once the season ends, allowing full focus on immediate goals.
From Arsenal’s perspective, extending Arteta’s stay is a clear priority, and the Spaniard is also open to continuing the collaboration. His influence at the club is significant, resembling that of a traditional manager with extensive control, a level of authority that has been earned through constant progress and improved performances.
Financial aspects are expected to play an important role in the discussions. Arteta is seeking assurances that investment in the workforce will continue, along with a pay rise. His current deal, signed until 2024, is worth £10m a year with an extra £5m linked to Champions League qualification, putting him just below the top earners among managers in Europe.
Sales strategy could shape transfer plans
While securing Arteta’s future is key, Arsenal are also preparing for a summer of calculated player dealing. After spending around £250m last year, the club are expected to balance their finances to meet Premier League squad cost ratio regulations.
The recruitment team, led by Andrea Berta, has identified three main axes to strengthen: a versatile full-back, a central midfielder and a left attacker. However, incoming offers may depend on outgoings, with the club ready to respond to market opportunities as they arise.
Among those who draw attention are the graduates of the academy Myles Lewis-Skelly i Ethan Nwaneri. Both signed long-term contracts last summer, but Arsenal are open to offers, largely because the transfer fees received will be recorded as a pure profit in financial terms.
Interest in Nwaneri includes approaches from Borussia Dortmund and other Premier League clubs, while Lewis-Skelly is also being tracked by top-half sides. Arsenal are believed to value the pair at a combined minimum of £100m.
Other players who could be available include Gabriel Jesus, Ben Whitei Gabriel Martinelli. Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard is entering the final two years of his contract, although Arteta is keen to retain his captain despite the potential uncertainty.
Targets identified as recruitment plans take shape
In terms of signing, Arsenal are closely monitoring a number of players, particularly from Newcastle United. Full-back Tino Livramento is admired, although his recent injury problems are a consideration. Midfielder Sandro Tonali and winger Anthony Gordon are also on the club’s radar, with Gordon being seriously considered in 2024.
Beyond the Premier League, Arsenal have been alerted to the availability of Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, whose contract is coming to an end. In attack, interest in Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez remains genuine, although a move would likely depend on an exit for either Viktor Gyokeres or Kai Havertz.
The club are also expected to complete a permanent deal for Piero Hincapié after his loan spell, in a transfer valued at £45m. This move reflects a more targeted approach compared to the big spend of the previous summer.
Overall, Arsenal’s next window is shaping up to be a pivotal one. Whether silverware arrives or not, decisions on contracts, sales and recruitment will play a crucial role in determining the next phase of the club’s development.
