Arsenal is optimistic about securing Martín Zubimendi’s signature in the summer while intensifying efforts to bring in a striker following Gabriel Jesus’s anterior cruciate ligament injury. Jesus’s injury, sustained during the FA Cup match against Manchester United, will keep him sidelined until next season. The club confirmed he will undergo surgery soon and begin rehabilitation, with full support from the team to ensure his recovery.
Negotiations for Zubimendi, the 25-year-old Spain midfielder who played a key role in his national team’s Euro 2024 victory, have reportedly advanced. The player, currently with Real Sociedad, has a €60m release clause that Arsenal is prepared to meet. Zubimendi previously turned down a move to Liverpool but is now keen on joining Arsenal. The club’s strong relationship with Real Sociedad, further solidified by the signing of Mikel Merino last August, is expected to facilitate the deal. Arsenal’s midfield rebuild is also influenced by uncertainties surrounding the futures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho, whose contracts are set to expire at the end of the season.
The injury to Jesus has left Arsenal with limited options up front, with Kai Havertz being the only recognized striker available. This has prompted the club to explore the market for reinforcements. Arsenal is considering accelerating a summer move for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenian striker has been on the club’s radar, though Leipzig is reportedly reluctant to sell mid-season. Sesko’s new contract with Leipzig includes a gentleman’s agreement over a future transfer fee, adding complexity to any immediate deal.
If a summer move for Sesko cannot be expedited, Arsenal may turn to the European loan market for a temporary solution. Dusan Vlahovic, who was heavily scouted by Arsenal in 2022, is a potential option. However, Juventus may be unwilling to let the Serbian striker leave, especially as they pursue Randal Kolo Muani on loan from Paris Saint-Germain. The competition for Kolo Muani’s signature from Tottenham further complicates Juventus’s plans, which could affect Vlahovic’s availability.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has emphasized the club’s proactive approach to improving the squad. He expressed the importance of seizing opportunities in the transfer market to strengthen the team and maintain competitiveness. Arteta also addressed the impact of social media abuse on players, referencing how negative messages directed at Kai Havertz’s family had affected the forward’s confidence.
Meanwhile, Oleksandr Zinchenko may be allowed to leave Arsenal on loan this month. The emergence of academy talent Myles Lewis-Skelly at left-back has limited Zinchenko’s appearances. Borussia Dortmund and Galatasaray have shown interest in the Ukrainian defender, who joined Arsenal in 2022. A loan move could provide Zinchenko with more regular playing time while benefiting the club financially.
Arsenal’s focus remains on navigating the challenges posed by injuries and squad depth while strategically planning for long-term improvements. With key decisions looming in the transfer market, the club aims to maintain its momentum and competitiveness in the Premier League and beyond.
