With the January transfer window only shutting on Tuesday, it may seem a bit too soon to be looking ahead to the summer. However, a combination of Arsenal's recent business and the realistic prospect of Champions League qualification means it could be one of the club's most exciting - and expensive - yet.
As it was widely reported, bids were submitted for Mykhailo Mudryk and Moises Caicedo last month. Had the Gunners been successful in the pursuit of both players, their arrivals would have likely cost around £170million combined. Instead, a total of £60million was splashed on Leandro Trossard, Jakub Kiwior and Jorginho, with a number of positions being strengthened as a result.
The disappointment of missing out on Mudryk and Caicedo is understandable, but Arsenal eventually got what they needed and they got it smartly. Although the new recruits will undoubtedly provide much-needed depth, experience and quality during what is a crucial stage of the season, there will also be an acceptance that the bar must be raised even further in the coming months, especially if Champions League football is secured.
