The January transfer window is already a third complete and Arsenal are yet to make any reinforcements to their squad. The need for extra players in key positions is obvious and the risk of wasting this opportunity could be grave for the club’s title hopes.
Mikel Arteta has reiterated the importance of not losing out this month, laying down something of an expectation on those high up in Arsenal to bring him what he needs. Speaking after the goalless draw with Newcastle he made his position on the matter clear.
“It’s something more for Edu and the board to respond to,” Arteta said. “We are really trying to improve the squad in every window, this is no different.
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“We will try to do our best because we cannot waste any window. We’re still with the squad and the numbers that we had but we will try.”
Mykhaylo Mudryk remains the key fixture of the window so far. football.london understands that the club have not been deterred by their rejected offers for the Ukrainian and talks continue.
However, should Mudryk arrive, it could take up the majority of any budget the side has for this winter window. With needs in the centre-forward position and central midfield, options and time are beginning to dwindle.
Arsenal have now seen alternative forward target Joao Felix close on a move to Chelsea, with their other options also being considered by rivals. Should, however, the worst-case scenario near and Deadline Day arrives without having strengthened these areas, there is a contingency plan for some immediate reinforcement.
football.london understands that both Charlie Patino and Folarin Balogun loan deals have the option to recall them back to Arsenal. Both players have had standout seasons whilst away from their parent club.
Balogun is currently the joint-third highest goalscorer in Ligue 1 behind only Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. His 10 goals for Reims account for half of the side’s total goals scored this season, highlighting his importance to the group.
Meanwhile, Charlie Patino has become a fan favourite at relegation-threatened Championship side Blackpool. Two goals and two assists for the 19-year-old first-team regular have solidified his spot in the side.
He has played most of his games deep in the midfield, playing in either of the roles occupied by Granit Xhaka or Thomas Partey. His anchoring helps Blackpool to beat the press and progress up the field in search of attacks.
Both players would certainly add both quality and depth to a squad that needs it, especially without the chance of adding beyond the Ukrainian winger. Questions will of course arise regarding their development being affected by becoming substitutes for the Gunners.
However, Arteta’s options have been so thin he has often opted not to make changes. With the additions of Balogun and Patino, players like Nketiah, Xhaka and Partey could be brought off earlier in games, allowing more rest and recovery whilst allowing for crucial top-level opportunities for the two stars.
It is an option Arsenal have and can consider. Whether they take it though, remains to be seen.
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