MIKEL ARTETA says Arsenal are still “short” of depth and quality and will continue to spend big in the transfer window.
And the Gunners boss has hinted that they could welcome more new signings on their pre-season tour of Singapore with a £63.5million deal for Viktor Gyokeres edging closer.
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Arsenal have bought four players so far this summer – splashing out over £120m on the likes of Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Noni Madueke.
Three of those four are currently in Asia with Madueke needing some rest from his Club World Cup participation, having completed his £52m move from Chelsea last Friday.
Arteta is keen to transform his squad even further – on the brink of finally landing an elite No.9 in Sporting Lisbon’s Gyokeres with negotiations over add-ons at the final stages, while Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera is also in talks over a £16.5m switch and Crystal Palace’s £60m-rated Eberechi Eze remains a target.
Gyokeres is adamant he will never play for Sporting again, currently staying away from training, and has his heart set on playing for Arteta.
There had been hope that the Gyokeres transfer would be completed in time for him to play some part of Arsenal’s pre-season opener against AC Milan in Singapore on Wednesday.
And asked about the Swede, Arteta said: “I cannot comment on any player who is not part of our group yet. When we have something concrete to offer, we will do that.”
Pressed on if new faces will be flying out to join up with the squad soon, he continued: “There are a lot of parties and things that we have to bear in mind to get a player over the line and here. I’m very hopeful that we are going to do it very soon.
“There’s still a long time in the window and we are seeking still, in terms of numbers.
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“We are short and we have to improve the depth and quality of the squad. We are constantly looking in the market.
“Ideally you want it from day one in pre-season. We have done very well so far, I’m very pleased with how the club has supported the improvements that we required in the team.
“[Sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the team have done an excellent job trying to push everything forward. You see the club ownership and the ambition we have, the alignment we have. There is excitement about the new season.
“There’s a long time to go in the window but we still have hopes we can improve the team and we will continue to try and do that.
“Until that happens, focus on the players we have and focus on them.”
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