Sports
Arsenal Eyes January Transfers Amid Injury Crisis
LONDON, England — Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has confirmed the club is actively exploring opportunities in the January transfer window to address a growing injury crisis and bolster their squad for a Premier League title push. With less than two weeks remaining in the window, the Gunners are racing against time to secure reinforcements.
Arteta highlighted the team’s current limitations, stating, “When you look at the bench, you probably say, look at the bench, we are very, very short.” The Spaniard emphasized the need for depth, particularly in the forward line, as injuries to key players like Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka have left the squad stretched thin.
Arsenal are reportedly advancing in talks to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with a summer move appearing likely. The 24-year-old has been a standout performer in La Liga, and Arteta is said to be personally involved in negotiations. The potential departures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho at the end of their contracts have further necessitated midfield reinforcements.
In addition to Zubimendi, Arsenal are eyeing Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram, who has scored 14 goals and provided six assists in 26 appearances this season. However, Inter are reluctant to part with the 27-year-old in January, making a summer deal more feasible. Thuram’s versatility and goal-scoring prowess make him an attractive target for Arteta’s side.
Another name on Arsenal’s radar is RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko. The 20-year-old Slovenian, who has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young forwards, was a target for the Gunners last summer. Journalist Ben Jacobs noted, “Strong interest in Benjamin Sesko but likely a summer saga.” Brighton‘s Evan Ferguson and Botafogo‘s Igor Jesus are also reportedly under consideration.
Arteta’s urgency to strengthen the squad is driven by Arsenal’s ambitions to compete for the Premier League title. The club’s reliance on set pieces and the inconsistent form of their attackers have exposed the need for a reliable striker. With Gabriel Jesus sidelined for the rest of the season, Kai Havertz remains the only recognized forward in the squad.
As the January window draws to a close, Arsenal face the challenge of balancing immediate needs with long-term planning. While some deals may be deferred until the summer, Arteta is determined to ensure his team remains competitive in the title race.