Arsenal signings unlikely despite Mikel Arteta calls to strengthen

Arsenal are reportedly unlikely to add any new players to their squad during the January transfer window despite Mikel Arteta saying he hopes to strengthen the squad.

According to Sky Sports News, incomings at the Emirates Stadium are unlikely given how much Arsenal spent in the summer. Reporter Dharmesh Sheth said the summer signing of William Saliba from Saint Etienne was a potential reason the club would be unwilling to sign a centre-back, although the absence of Calum Chambers will concern fans.

Currently, Arsenal have just David Luiz, Sokratis, Rob Holding and Shkodran Mustafi as fit senior defenders and the club are reportedly open to the sale of Mustafi. Holding has also played very little football this season following an ACL injury he picked up in December 2018.

However, new Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta remains keen on strengthening his squad. During his press conference on Thursday, prior to the third round FA Cup tie with Leeds United on Monday, Arteta said:

"“We’re going to try to be in the market to see options that can strengthen the team. That’s for sure and that’s our obligation, and we’re going to be working on that. My obligation is to give my opinion on the things we can improve. Obviously we have some bad injuries, like Calum a few days ago. That’s obviously going to change our plans at the back, but the reality at the moment is that we’re not going to be able to do much.”"

Another key area of the pitch Arsenal could be looking to strengthen is the centre of midfield. With Granit Xhaka of interest to Hertha Berlin, Dani Ceballos just back from injury and Matteo Guendouzi and Joe Willock still only 20, Arsenal could find themselves lacking in experienced midfield options very shortly.

One midfield player Arsenal have been linked with is Juventus man Adrian Rabiot. Rabiot is a name that has been touted as an Arsenal target for many years and it has emerged once again following his tough start to life in Turin. However, according to Goal reporter Romeo Agresti, Juve have no interest in letting Rabiot move on. He said they believe in his potential and feel he can play a key role this season.

Arsenal won their first match under Arteta against Manchester United on New Years Day with a convincing 2-0 win at the Emirates.