Following injuries to Mohamed Elneny and Thomas Partey, Arsenal's focus on the last day of the transfer window has swiftly turned towards midfield reinforcements.
It's believed that Nicolas Pepe's loan departure originally paved the way for a new winger to come in, but Mikel Arteta confirmed that the club's transfer plans have since changed as a result of the fresh absentees.
"Obviously, it has an impact (on transfers) because Thomas is injured as well, and we're a bit short in that position," Arteta said. "We have players like Sambi, we have players like Granit who can play there. The club has been super supportive to keep improving the squad and the team as we can, and if the right player is available and we can do it we will try."
READ MORE: Why Arsenal are pursuing £20m Douglas Luiz transfer amid deadline day panic buy claims
football.london understands talks are underway to bring Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz to the Emirates Stadium despite Villa sources insisting the player is not for sale. There's no certainty that a deal will go through, but with under a year remaining on his current contract, an offer in the region of £20million could turn heads.
Although much of Arteta and Edu's attention is understandably on midfield, there may still be one last chance to bring in a new forward if those within the walls of London Colney believe it's an absolute must.
That's because Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano is reporting that Memphis Depay could have his Barcelona contract terminated if another club comes in for him in the remaining hours of the window. This would see the Netherlands international, who reportedly wants to leave, depart for free.
Of course, that's not to say Arsenal will look at him, though it could be viewed as a feasible option late on in the day. London rivals Chelsea are being heavily linked with the 28-year-old, who joined Manchester United back in 2015 for around £30m.
Fears are growing over Bukayo Saka's fitness due to the number of games he finds himself playing. The return to Europe and newly introduced five-substitute rule also mean squad depth is key this season, though the additions of Fabio Vieira and Marquinhos do provide Arteta with decent options across the frontline.
READ NEXT:
Cedric to stay at Arsenal despite interest from Fulham as Gunners near Hector Bellerin decision
The 3 deals Arsenal are working on for Deadline Day as Danilo links spark Bukayo Saka concern
Arsenal's 25-man Premier League squad if three deals are completed on transfer deadline day
Three ways Arsenal could lineup with Douglas Luiz if Edu completes Deadline Day transfer
Danilo and Mudryk deals completed, Zaha signs - Arsenal's best and worst transfer deadline day
