Arsenal find themselves in rather unfamiliar territory if recent history is any indicator, but their table-topping exploits thus far is the culmination of a clear and cautious approach to transfers, under the expert guidance of Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu.
The Gunners are five points clear with a game in hand over second-place Manchester City, whom they will face first in the FA Cup fourth round on Friday, before a crucial league meeting in February that will almost certainly have a seismic effect on the unfolding title race.
Nevertheless, 50 points at the halfway stage of a Premier League has only been bettered by four teams, with all but one of those sides going on to claim the trophy.
The question for Arsenal is, does this youthful and relatively inexperienced team have the poise to see out another 19 games, and is there enough depth in the squad in case of injuries further down the line?
They have already moved quickly to provide some much needed depth in the attacking wide areas after completing the £27m signing of Leandro Trossard, while highly-rate Polish centre-back Jakub Kiwior has been added to the defensive roster that now holds considerable depth.
Questions remain over the midfield area, particularly with Mohamad Elneny set for another frustrating spell on the sidelines and emerging talent Sambi Lokonga appearing to be out of his depth at times when given a chance.
Manager Mikel Arteta admitted his side “need some more cover in midfield ideally if we can,” but also went on to claim the market presents its own complications, particularly in January.
However, with four days remaining until the winter window closes, we are taking a look at some of the realistic targets the Arsenal board may still be working on in order to bolster their title chances.
Ivan Fresneda – Real Valladolid
Cedric Soares’ imminent loan move across London to Fulham may be the catalyst for Arsenal to make a stronger approach for highly sought-after right-back Ivan Fresneda.
Both the Gunners and Borussia Dortmund are said to have agreed personal terms with the 18-year-old, and any potential deal may involve the full-back staying at Valladolid on loan for the remainder of the season.
🚨 Ivan Fresneda has skipped training with Real Valladolid amid interest from Arsenal.
Arsenal and Dortmund have both agreed a fee of £13m for the 18-year-old.
(Marca) pic.twitter.com/CMRd4BFxxh
— CaughtOffside (@caughtoffside) January 26, 2023
The Spaniard undoubtedly fits the mould of Edu and Arteta’s vision for the future – he has a dynamic athletic profile, incredibly difficult to beat one-on-one and his flexible skillset on the ball culminates in a player well beyond his years. He would certainly be a welcome addition, and would allow either Ben White or Takehiro Tomiyasu to provide cover at centre-back should a move materialise.
Moises Caicedo
It remains a remote possibility that Brighton will allow another of their key starters to exit the club mid-season, particularly to the same club following Trossard’s move to North London.
However, rumours over midfielder Moises Caicedo’s future refuse to die down, and the Ecuadorian recently signed on with new agents which could be decisive in any negotiations before the close of the window.
Moises Caicedo. Ecuador’s gem. 🇪🇨 pic.twitter.com/pRf3potbA0
— Eduardo Hagn (@EduardoHagn) January 25, 2023
At just 21, Caicedo has cemented himself as one of the more dynamic midfielders in the Premier League, and perhaps shines the most out of possession – his aggressive, disruptive style would be a huge asset to any of the potential suitors chasing his signature, which includes long-term admirers Liverpool and free-spending Chelsea, who have a host of midfielders running down the end of their contracts this summer.
Brighton are notoriously stubborn when it comes to price tags, and a player of his potential would command a fee in excess of £50m.
Amadou Onana
Another midfield target, Amadou Onana has been rumoured to be on the radar of both Arsenal and Chelsea, and with Everton seemingly in free-fall, the Belgian may be on the look out for a quick exit.
The 21-year-old only signed from Lille in August of last year so a move away from Goodison Park seems unlikely in January, but several reports have confirmed the Gunners are willing to bid at least £50m to pry him away this winter.
Amadou onana to arsenal? Discuss.🔴 pic.twitter.com/BAugPXucMy
— Asmarrr~ SN (@Afc_asmarrr) January 24, 2023
Although his playmaking skillset is perhaps not as desirable as his proactive ball-winning ability, he would arrive with bundles of potential and a solid foundation for the future in order to thrive – as recent history shows, the environment at Arsenal for young players is highly desirable.
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