By Martin Graham
For Arsenal, attention remains firmly on the present as they chase a first Premier League title in 22 years and push towards a Champions League semi-final. Mikel Arteta’s philosophy of “trust the process” is edging closer to full validation, yet any success this season is not viewed internally as the end point of the project.
Instead, the upcoming summer is being treated as a chance to build further momentum, regardless of how the campaign concludes. Central to that outlook is Arteta’s own situation, with his current contract set to enter its final year, prompting the need for clarity over his long-term future.
Initial conversations 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 revisit negotiations once the season ends, allowing full concentration on immediate objectives.
From Arsenal’s perspective, extending Arteta’s stay is a clear priority, and the Spaniard is also open to continuing the partnership. His influence at the club is significant, resembling that of a traditional manager with broad control, a level of authority he has earned through consistent progress and improved performances.
Financial aspects are expected to play a major role in discussions. Arteta is seeking assurances that investment in the squad will continue, alongside an improved salary package. His current deal, signed in 2024, is worth £10m annually with an additional £5m tied to Champions League qualification, placing him just below the highest 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 trading. After spending around £250m last year, the club is expected to balance its finances to comply with the Premier League’s squad cost ratio regulations.
The recruitment team, led by Andrea Berta, has identified three main areas for strengthening: a versatile full-back, a central midfielder, and a left-sided attacker. However, incoming deals may depend on departures, with the club ready to respond to market opportunities as they arise.
Among those attracting attention are academy graduates Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri. Both signed long-term contracts last summer, but Arsenal are open to offers, largely because any transfer fees received would be recorded as 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 teams in the top half of the table. Arsenal are believed to value the pair at a combined minimum of £100m.
Other players who could be available include Gabriel Jesus, Ben White, and Gabriel Martinelli. Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard is entering the final two years of his contract, though Arteta is keen to retain his captain despite the potential uncertainty.
Targets identified as recruitment plans take shape
On the incoming front, Arsenal are closely monitoring several players, particularly from Newcastle United. Full-back Tino Livramento is admired, although his recent injury issues are a consideration. Midfielder Sandro Tonali and winger Anthony Gordon are also on the club’s radar, with Gordon having been seriously considered in 2024.
Beyond the Premier League, Arsenal have been alerted to the availability of Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, whose contract is nearing its end. In attack, interest in Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez remains genuine, though a move would likely depend on a departure involving either Viktor Gyokeres or Kai Havertz.
The club is also expected to finalise a permanent deal for Piero Hincapié following his loan spell, in a transfer valued at £45m. This move reflects a more targeted approach compared to the previous summer’s heavy spending.
Overall, Arsenal’s upcoming window is shaping up to be pivotal. Whether or not silverware arrives, decisions around contracts, sales, and recruitment will play a crucial role in determining the next phase of the club’s development.
