Arsenal celebrated a triumphant season, clinching the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years and securing a spot in the Champions League final.
This season marked a significant achievement on the field. After three consecutive second-place finishes, manager Mikel Arteta elevated the team with thoughtful tactical adjustments and a bold summer transfer strategy that involved substantial spending.
In this installment of the ‘Keep or Dump’ series, sports analysts Mark Ogden and Gabriele Marcotti take on the challenges currently confronting the club as the summer transfer window approaches. Previous editions focused on Liverpool and Manchester United.
– Inside Arsenal’s five-step plan to reclaim the Premier League title
– Ian Dark’s Premier League best and most disappointing eleven
– Joyful moment: Arsenal finally lifts the Premier League trophy after 22 years of anticipation
Considerations for Mikel Arteta’s Contract Renewal
As the season concludes, both Mark and Gabe believe it is time to reward Arteta with a contract extension and a salary increase. His performance on the pitch speaks for itself, and his leadership has proven invaluable.
Finalizing the new deal over the summer isn’t strictly necessary, but it could be beneficial in attracting new talent during the transfer window, even though there is minimal risk of him departing for another club. Equally crucial is discussing his vision for the team’s play next season, which will shape Arsenal’s summer strategy. In previous seasons, the Gunners adopted a free-flowing, attacking style. This past year, however, they adapted to a more physical and conservative approach that yielded positive results. What direction will the team take next?
While Gabriel Jesus has been a mainstay, the time may have come to part ways, given his high wages and limited transfer appeal. Conversely, young talent like Martinelli deserves a suitable contract that reflects his potential, even as his opportunities dwindled this season due to the emergence of fellow winger Noni Maduke. Both analysts agree that Trossard, despite nearing 32, offers a unique skill set and should be retained, whether in a new contract or as a stay-without one.
Knollgaard may not have seen much action last season but played a vital role in midfield depth. Given his limited transfer value, it makes sense to retain him as Arsenal assesses their options.
Evaluating Forward Options: Gokeres and Havertz
Arsenal’s investment in Victor Gokeres last summer raises questions about the striking options available alongside Kai Havertz. Mark advocates for adding another forward, specifically targeting Julián Álvarez, who is a desirable yet costly prospect due to interest from Barcelona and other top clubs.
On the other hand, Gabe offers a different perspective, feeling that while Álvarez could greatly enhance the squad, adding him without sidelining both Gokeres and Havertz could pose challenges. Should Arsenal pursue Álvarez, they might consider offloading Havertz, who has a residual value of approximately £24 million. His potential sale may allow the club to recover some financial ground while procuring a third forward option, either through a younger player or a veteran on a budget.
Young Talents: Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri
Arsenal’s commitment to young players Miles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri warrants careful consideration as they look to integrate them into the first team. Lewis-Skelly showcased his potential as a midfielder towards the end of last season, highlighting a clear trajectory that could culminate in a significant role moving forward.
Nwaneri’s situation requires a more nuanced approach. Should he remain at the club, he faces stiff competition from established midfielders such as Eze and Odegaard. His natural positioning leans centrally, suggesting that a loan may be the best path for his development unless Arsenal is willing to make tough decisions about other midfielders.
Contract Strategies for Key Players
David Raya, Declan Rice, and Julian Timber are all contracted until 2028, but Raya’s deal lacks an extension option, prompting discussions around his value. His exceptional talent positions him as arguably the top goalkeeper in the Premier League, making a case for a lucrative, longer-term contract to secure his services through 2030.
While there’s no immediate need to revisit contracts for Rice and Timber, the club must strategically plan their future. Rice is flourishing at 27, but his next contract will set the stage for his 30s. Timber, at just 24, may also soon require an updated deal.
Addressing Martin Odegaard’s Role
Despite being the club captain, Martin Odegaard’s performance has declined over the past two seasons, raising the question of whether Arsenal should search for a replacement in the attacking midfield position. Mark and Gabe believe the time may come to consider offers for him, especially since his contract runs until 2028, making now an opportune moment to secure a favorable transfer fee.
Both analysts agree that a move may benefit all parties, particularly if a competitive offer is presented. Odegaard’s diminishing impact in attack, coupled with a write-off of around £10 million, means the club should not hesitate to explore options that could pave the way for younger talent like Nwaneri or Lewis-Skelly to step into his shoes.
Financial Outlook and Future Decisions
Looking ahead, the reputable football finance blog Swiss Rumble forecasts that Arsenal may achieve a record profit in the 2025-26 season, despite the possibility of incurring losses akin to the previous years. Last summer, the club recorded a net spend of £251.4 million, the highest in its history, and currently faces a £52 million deficit this summer due to needing to secure Piero Hincapie’s contract on a permanent basis.
Recently, Arsenal offloaded Jakub Kivioglu to Porto for approximately £15 million, plus potential add-ons, and expect to generate around £12 million for Fabio Vieira, who impressed during his loan at Hamburg. These moves could provide the financial flexibility to pursue a quality attacking player who can play on the left or possibly as a forward. Unless other clubs express interest in Havertz or Odegaard, targeting players at the level of Álvarez might remain out of reach.
Arsenal finds itself in a solid position both on the pitch and financially, but strategic foresight is imperative. Key decisions will shape the club’s trajectory in the coming year, requiring careful deliberation and timely action.
