Edu approves two Mikel Arteta transfers as five Arsenal players could leave

Mikel Arteta is set to receive significant financial backing to strengthen his attacking options following Arsenal's Champions League departure.

Despite the European exit, Arteta has led a remarkable turnaround in the club's fortunes, keeping them in the title race and reaching their first Champions League quarter-final in 14 years. The narrow defeat to Bayern Munich has highlighted the need for a new striker and winger in the upcoming summer transfer window, with those positions now viewed as priorities which will be reinforced.

The Gunners have been monitoring Sporting CP's centre forward Viktor Gyokeres, RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, and have a long-standing interest in Alexander Isak, although a deal with Newcastle seems unlikely. Wolves' Pedro Neto tops their list of potential wide players, but they've also scouted Athletic Bilbao's Nico Williams.

In addition to bolstering their attack, Arsenal are keen on Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi as part of their squad overhaul and a new partner for Declan Rice. However, the focus remains on the forward line, even though Kai Havertz's impressive form this season could see them opt for a younger player to nurture rather than pursuing Brentford's Ivan Toney, whose appeal has waned.

Gabriel Jesus has been battling with injuries, while the heavy reliance on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli has led to fatigue and susceptibility to injury. The addition of another top winger would increase competition, and Arsenal will have additional funds available this summer due to their financial prudence in January, ensuring they stayed within Premier League spending regulations, reports the Mirror.

This effectively resets in the summer, but Arsenal and sporting director Edu are also planning a squad overhaul with several departures likely. Eddie Nketiah is expected to attract offers, with Crystal Palace among those eyeing the striker valued at over £30m.

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Aaron Ramsdale and Emile Smith Rowe could also be on the move, while it's uncertain whether Reiss Nelson or Leandro Trossard would be allowed to leave if the club decides to refresh their wide options. Arsenal remain firmly committed to Arteta and are set to intensify their efforts to secure him on a new contract, with his current deal set to expire in 2025.

While these discussions have been put on hold during a busy season, the fact that they're planning another significant investment this summer demonstrates the high level of trust they have in their manager, who is considered one of the best young coaches in global football.