Arsenal had a rare weekend off with the postponement of the north London derby, but that only highlighted the issues within Mikel Arteta's squad.
The Gunners have seen their ranks depleted by injuries, suspension and the African Cup of Nations, though they've attracted criticism as outgoing deals continue to be agreed.
The mid-week Carabao Cup fixture against Liverpool is the latest tie to now be under scrutiny, as Arsenal continue to push for signings behind the scenes.
In the hunt for the services of Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo, the Gunners may have been issued a boost as Calcio Mercato states the Italian side have identified Denis Zakaria as a replacement - who has also been linked with Manchester United.
Juventus are not prepared to sanction an exit for Arthur without landing a replacement and, having previously been attributed with interest in Chelsea's Ruben Loftus-Cheek, now have an easier target to secure in Zakaria.
The Swiss international sees his current contract with Borussia Monchengladbach expire in the summer, meaning he's available for a cut-price fee this month.
Elsewhere, Mundo Deportivo states Barcelona have given Ousmane Dembele a 48-hour deadline to decide whether he will accept a contract renewal in Catalonia.
Dembele is out of contract with Barcelona this summer, and has been linked with Arsenal, with it added that the Catalan side intend to find-out who the Frenchman has an agreement to join and will attempt to seal a deal this month.
Finally, Defensa Central has stated that Real Madrid have joined the hunt for Lyon's long-term Arsenal target Bruno Guimaraes.
The 24-year-old has join in France since joining two years ago and has attracted a wealth of suitors for his services.
