Arsenal have already been highly active in the transfer market this summer, securing the signings of right-back Jurrien Timber and midfielder Declan Rice, having already captured forward Kai Havertz from rivals Chelsea.
These additions to the squad come as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen Arsenal ahead of the upcoming 2023-24 Premier League campaign. Despite already spending over £200 million in this summer transfer window, Arteta suggests that the club may still be involved in further activity in the market in the weeks to come.
Arteta has hinted at the possibility of more signings during the ongoing summer transfer window, leading up to the 2023-24 Premier League season. The Gunners have already spent a substantial amount, securing the services of Rice, Timber and Havertz. However, Arteta has not ruled out the potential for more additions to the squad.
Speaking about the club’s transfer plans, Arteta said, “Let’s see, there is still a lot of time in the market and a lot of expectation surrounding some of our players. So we will have to see how things develop in the next couple of weeks. We will remain vigilant. There is still time to make moves, and there is also time for departures, of course. I’m sure things will be in motion.”
Arteta emphasizes that Rice, Havertz, and Timber all bring unique qualities to the team as Arsenal aims to challenge for the Premier League title this season after finishing as runners-up in the 2022-23 campaign.
He expressed his satisfaction with the signings, stating, “Every player we have brought in brings something special to the team. We are very pleased that we have acquired the players we wanted. We signed them early, and they have quickly adapted to the team. We now have time to prepare and allow them the best opportunity to showcase their abilities and adapt to the Arsenal style.”
Rice’s arrival was recently announced after completing his £105 million move from West Ham. Arteta affirms that the England international has settled well into the squad and expresses his delight at having the 24-year-old at the club. He said, “Everyone knows about his leadership, personality, and the experience he brings at just 24.”
“He has already formed close relationships with some of the players, having known them from the England camp. Declan is a well-known figure in the league and has performed exceptionally for both West Ham and England. He will bring numerous qualities, leadership, and invaluable experience to our team. We are delighted to have him.”
Currently Arsenal are on a pre-season tour of the United States, with matches to be played against the MLS All-Stars, Manchester United and Barcelona.
Arteta has also confirmed that striker Folarin Balogun is part of the pre-season plans. The 22-year-old, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Ligue 1 club Reims last season, has attracted interest from Inter Milan. Arteta expressed the club’s intention to assess Balogun’s performance in upcoming games before making any decisions.
As the new Premier League season approaches, Arsenal fans eagerly await further developments in the transfer market, with Arteta’s comments indicating that the club may not be finished with their transfer activity just yet.
