Arsenal have spent lots on transfer fees in recent seasons, with moves to sign young, up and coming players the favoured transfer strategy for sporting director Edu and Mikel Arteta.
However, in the world of football there are still bargains to be had, with the New Year presenting the opportunity for clubs to negotiate with players whose contracts expire on June 30. There are some issue to resolve in the squad, with the need for additional depth in midfield and cover for Gabriel Jesus, who is out for up to 23 weeks.
Arsenal could be able to secure a transfer this month, but could wait six months for a free transfer with some surprising names having their contracts expire in the summer. Here, we take a look at some of the names Arsenal could target for free and save millions in the process.
READ MORE: Eddie Howe laughs off Marcus Thuram dream amid Arsenal transfer links
Youri Tielemans
The Leicester midfielder has been linked with the Gunners for some time now, with Mikel Arteta having struggled to fill his midfield with strength in depth since his arrival.
However, the availability of a free deal for the Belgian playmaker could present an appealing option in the coming months. While he is not a defensive midfielder, he would provide a threat from set pieces as well as the ability to control a match from deep.
Both Manchester United and Liverpool are tipped to compete for a transfer, but Arsenal are believed to be in pole position due to their long-standing interest in the 25-year-old.
As he is in the Premier League, however, Arsenal cannot open talks with him in January and will have to wait until the summer, which could lead to Tielemans moving abroad.
Evan Ndicka
The Eintracht Frankfurt defender has impressed in Germany, with his performances crucial in the Bundesliga club's Europa League win last season.
He has been linked to Arsrenal in recent times, with the left-footed centre-back having the potential to challenge Gabriel Maghalles for his place in the Arsenal team going forward. At just 23 he is certainly one to watch for Gunners fans.
Marcus Thuram
The France World Cup star has made a name for himself at Borussia Monchengladbach and at 25 he looks ready for a move to the Premier League.
He has already scored ten league goals this season and came on to great effect in the World Cup final, laying on an assist after he was substituted on early by Didier Deschamps to change the match.
He will be eligible to enter into pre-contract talks in January and Arsenal could target a move even earlier for a player who would help resolve their lack of depth exposed by the injury to Gabriel Jesus.
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