Arsenal fans are desperate for reinforcements in the January transfer window - but Mikel Arteta has suggested they might not be wise to get their hopes up.
The Gunners’ tough start to 2022 continued with a drab 0-0 draw at Burnley as they continue to struggle with a squad reduced to the bare bones.
Arteta has been open about his desire to strengthen his squad with Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic and Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo emerging as top targets.
But, despite ongoing talks to sign the pair, Arteta issued a concerning update which suggested he has little confidence of deals being done.
Asked about potential transfers after their Burnley draw, Arteta said: "We are certainly trying. But I don't know if we are going to be able to do it.”
HAVE YOUR SAY! What is Arsenal's biggest priority this transfer window? Join the discussion in the comments section.
Those comments come after Arteta confirmed the club were “working hard” and hopeful of adding reinforcements just a few days ago.
Speaking ahead of Arsenal's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool, the Spaniard said: “The team are working extremely hard to get the players that we want and we have no news to give you.
“We have a plan to try to bring players in and try to get the players we want with the right qualities and improve the squad in the best possible way every single window.”
Brazilian midfielder Arthur is believed to be keen to join the Gunners as talks continue over a loan deal from Juventus
Arsenal technical director Edu has held talks with his agent this week but was faced with stumbling blocks reaching an agreement.
The Italian giants have offered Arthur on an 18 month loan agreement but Arsenal have offered a six month loan deal and are reluctant to commit to a longer agreement because they do not know whether they will have Champions League income next season.
Vlahovic, meanwhile, is the subject of plenty of interest after his goalscoring exploits for Fiorentina.
However, he is believed to be reluctant to move to Arsenal and in no rush to decide his future with the potential for a move to Juventus or Inter Milan to present itself.Mikel Arteta offers concerning update on Arsenal’s Dusan Vlahovic and Arthur transfers
