Arsenal 'targeting three new signings in January'

Arsenal reportedly have ambitions to make as many as three new signings during the January transfer window.

The Gunners can claim to have enjoyed a strong first half of the season, notably progressing through to the Champions League last 16 as group winners.

However, despite spending periods at the top of the Premier League standings, Mikel Arteta's side have lost some momentum in recent weeks, collecting just four points from as many games.

While a 1-1 draw away at rivals Liverpool before Christmas was perceived to be a positive, Arsenal followed that point by losing 2-0 at home to West Ham United earlier this week.

After the game, Arteta was critical of his team's work in the final third, failing to breach the West Ham backline despite having sustained spells in the final third.

© Reuters

As a result, there have been widespread suggestions that a new centre-forward will be targeted in January with no Arsenal player scoring more than five times in the top flight during 2023-24.

Nevertheless, according to Football Insider, Arsenal would preferably like to bring in two other fresh faces in the days and weeks after the turn of the year.

The Spaniard is allegedly keen to see a new centre-back and central midfielder arrive at the Emirates Stadium in an effort to strengthen his options.

Arteta is not short in any of the aforementioned areas, yet there appears a desire to freshen things up and attempt to improve the quality at his disposal.

© Reuters

For that to be achieved, the report states that much may be dependent on whether Arsenal are successful in freeing up space on their wage bill and generating funds to boost their position with FFP.

In recent weeks, defender Jakub Kiwior and midfield duo Jorginho and Thomas Partey have both been suggested for exits should suitable offers arrive.

Arsenal are also likely to be open to cashing in on Cedric Soares and Mohamed Elneny, whose contracts are both due to expire at the end of the season.

Emile Smith Rowe may be considered for a departure, too, but club officials are unlikely to contemplate a sale if their valuation is not met, despite the academy graduate's injury issues over the past 16 months.