Arsenal’s Key Transfer Targets for the 2026 Summer Window

Even as the reigning Premier League champions, Arsenal understands the importance of continuous improvement. Manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are gearing up for an active summer transfer window in 2026.

Last year’s significant investment of £250 million paid off, culminating in Arsenal’s long-awaited return to the top of English football. Additionally, their journey to the Champions League final has bolstered their financial resources, allowing Arteta to consider offloading some fringe players to facilitate new signings.

Sports Mole evaluates Arsenal’s transfer priorities for the upcoming summer window.

1. New Left-Winger or Two?

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The arrival of Eberechi Eze last summer sparked questions about his role, with the England international primarily playing centrally when Martin Odegaard was unavailable. Meanwhile, Gabriel Martinelli had a limited impact in the Premier League, scoring just one goal, while Leandro Trossard managed only one top-flight strike in 2026.

Trossard’s lone goal was crucial in a narrow victory over West Ham United, contributing to a total of 19 assists throughout the season. However, his contract runs until 2027 amid speculation that Arsenal may receive offers from European clubs.

This context highlights that securing a new left-winger is a top priority for Arteta and Berta, with potential plans to recruit more than one player for this position.

The club is reportedly targeting Club Brugge’s Christos Tzolis for £35 million but remains open to adding another attacking option, possibly including Morgan Rogers.

2. Finding a Replacement for Ben White

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Fans were disheartened by Ben White’s decline in form and fitness during the 2025-26 season, raising concerns about his future at Arsenal. The 28-year-old was limited to just 12 Premier League appearances due to injuries, including a serious knee issue that also prevented him from participating in the World Cup.

White’s recurring injury problems increased pressure on Jurrien Timber, who is also sidelined due to a severe groin injury. As White’s contract extends until 2028 and with only youth player Cristhian Mosquera as an alternative right-back option, pursuing players like Tino Livramento or Ivan Fresneda could alleviate potential issues next season.

3. Future-Proofing the Midfield

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Apart from Ethan Nwaneri—whose future is uncertain following an unsuccessful loan at Marseille—and Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has shifted roles between midfield and defense, Arsenal’s midfield options are aging or nearing their peak performance years. Key players like Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Martin Zubimendi, Eze, Christian Norgaard, and Mikel Merino range between ages 27 and 32.

To ensure longevity in this critical area of the pitch, Arsenal aims to bolster its midfield. After missing out on Rodrigo Mendoza to Atletico Madrid, they are now seen as frontrunners to secure Moroccan talent Ayyoub Bouaddi from Lille.

The club has received encouragement to pursue this young prospect—who scored 105 goals as a striker—and with an estimated price tag of £60 million, he represents a viable investment for the future.