Arsenal Boss Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta vowed to make a statement in the summer transfer window, and so far, the Gunners’ hierarchy seems to be living up to that promise. With Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke’s transfer on the horizon, some players are going to be on the chopping block.
The arrivals of Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi have already been confirmed, and the Premier League contenders are showing no signs of slowing down, with more signings expected in the coming weeks.
Softfootball has reliably learned that Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as the front-runner to spearhead Arsenal’s attack, while the Gunners are also eyeing a swoop for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the current players at the Emirates that potential deals for Gyokeres and Madueke could spell problems for.
1. Gabriel Jesus
Gabriel Jesus arrived in the 2022/23 campaign and will have World Cup ambitions heading into the new season. The Brazilian’s minutes were stunted in the second half of last season after an injury picked up in January ruled him out for the remainder of the season as reported by Footbal London.
But with Gyokeres likely to be leading the line for Arsenal, with Kai Havertz playing second fiddle, Jesus might find it difficult to break into the starting XI, not least if the ex-Manchester City star’s injury issues don’t let up.
2. Ethan Nwaneri
Perhaps a surprise entry on this list, but it’s unlikely Ethan Nwaneri will be grinning from ear to ear if deals for Gyokeres and Madueke get confirmed, especially if the capital club dip back into the market for Eberechi Eze.
While only 18 years old, Nwaneri has been a bright addition to Arsenal’s squad, but any new signings in the attacking department could clog up his game time.
3. Gabriel Martinelli
Gabriel Martinelli will have to hit the ground running next season if he wishes to maintain his spot in the starting XI. Having turned 24 years old over the summer, Martinelli will be expected to show signs of improvement in his game as he approaches his peak.
Martinelli has been accused of blowing hot and cold at times during his Arsenal career, but with fierce competition for places, the Brazilian might not be afforded the same opportunities anymore.
4. Leandro Trossard
Signed as a depth piece in the January 2023 window, Leandro Trossard has been a useful addition to the Arsenal squad, but there’s a feeling he could be pushed to one side if Madueke and Gyokeres sign.
With a contract that is set to expire next summer, Arsenal may have to cash in this summer if they want to bag a fee of any kind for the 30-year-old. Given there’s a World Cup on the horizon next summer, Trossard will want to be playing regularly throughout the season.
In an earlier report, Softfootball reported that Mikel Arteta has been warned that Arsenal star may leave to emulate Bellingham. Former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy has questioned whether Arsenal starlet Ethan Nwaneri might be lured to Borussia Dortmund in his search for regular minutes.
The Arsenal midfielder enjoyed an impressive breakthrough campaign last season and established himself as a key member of Mikel Arteta’s first team squad. Nwaneri is keen to remain with his boyhood club though he is said to be seeking assurances over his game time before he signs a new long-term contract with the Gunners.
