Arsenal transfer news LIVE: Houssem Aouar, Thomas Partey, Boubakary Soumare - latest Premier League

Arsenal were humbled by Liverpool at Anfield on Monday night, proving Mikel Arteta’s journey is only just starting and that reinforcements are needed for the Gunners before the 5 October deadline. Midfield is the priority area to strengthen with the lengthy pursuits of Atletico Madrid’s Thomas Partey or Lyon’s Houssem Aouar.

Sales are needed to fund those moves however, with the difficulty in extracting value from the sale of Lucas Torreira, Matteo Guendouzi or Mesut Ozil, given the lack of suitors. A cheaper alternative midfield option could be Boubakary Soumare, with Lille ready to sell imminently.

Elsewhere, Reiss Nelson and possibly Emile Smith Rowe could earn loan moves to further develop with increased game time not available under Arteta, with Premier League clubs thought to be keen. And in defence, Shkodran Mustafi, Sokratis and Calum Chambers also appear to be available as the Gunners look to cut their squad down.