The upcoming summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of huge importance to Arsenal as upgrading their midfield options is seemingly the priority.
Given the standards set by Manchester City in terms of squad depth, in order for the Gunners to mount another Premier League title challenge in the 2023/34 campaign and give a good account of themselves in the Champions League, borrowing a leaf out of Pep Guardiola's playbook would not be the worst idea.
Now, similar to potential defensive reinforcements, Mikel Arteta's side are being tipped to bolster the midfield in the summer transfer window as Declan Rice, Mason Mount and Moises Caicedo are just a few names that have been tipped to arrive at the Emirates Stadium in the next few months.
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Although if Arsenal are to sign one or two of those targets, there could be a couple of senior midfielders already at the club that may in turn look to use the summer window as an opportunity to leave north London for pastures new and seek regular football for next season.
But who should be kept, sold, or loaned out in the summer? football.london assesses Arteta's midfield options below...
Thomas Partey
Previously considered Arsenal's best central midfielder when fit. The injury setbacks seem to be behind Thomas Partey but his form of late has seen him lose his place in the starting line-up. Can still be regarded as a key player but should Rice arrive, for example, the Ghana international may no longer be a guaranteed starter. KEEP
Martin Odegaard
Only appointed as permanent captain last summer, has enjoyed a fantastic goalscoring season with 15 in the Premier League and is surely a big part of Arsenal's bright future. KEEP
Emile Smith Rowe
If it wasn't for groin surgery, Emile Smith Rowe would have featured a lot more for Arsenal this season. With that said, it has been somewhat of a concern that he's not played much ever since returning to fitness. Nevertheless, Mikel Arteta clearly has big plans for him in a deeper role. KEEP
Jorginho
A rather surprising January transfer window signing but one that could turn out to be a shrewd piece of business if Arsenal go on to win the Premier League trophy as Jorginho has brought composure at a crucial time after replacing Partey at the base of midfield.
The Italian's contract expires at the end of next season and whilst his game time will be affected if Rice is recruited, his experience would make him a valuable member of the first-team squad. KEEP
Fabio Vieira
Fabio Vieira has suffered the effects of not having a pre-season as it's been difficult for him to get up to full speed and that's been evident in some of his performances. The fact that the club invested £34 million in him shows there's a plan in place and it's a case of giving him time but one has to question if he will get much game time next season if two central midfielders arrive and therefore he may need to depart temporarily. KEEP or LOAN
Mohamed Elneny
Currently sidelined with a knee injury, Mohamed Elneny signed a new one-year contract in January which means he has another season in him at the Emirates Stadium. However, considering his age and Arsenal's transfer plans it does raise the question if the club should be open to selling the Egypt international if offers arrive. SELL (if minutes are to be limited).
Granit Xhaka
It's funny to think that not too long ago Granit Xhaka was on his way out of Arsenal and not many supporters would have been sad to see him leave. That's not the case now as he's been one of the best midfielders in the league this season. Although his role could change if there's extra competition for places next season. KEEP
Loan players
Ainsley Maitland-Niles has already expressed his desire to depart on a free transfer this summer and it would not be a surprise if Albert Sambi Lokonga follows him out of the door having not quite set the world alight during a spell with Crystal Palace during the second half of the season.
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