Arsenal's Transfer Countdown: Which Missing Pieces Must the Gunners Secure Before Deadline Day?
Arsenal have undoubtedly behaved like a team determined to shed their 'runner-up' reputation during this transfer window.
The North London club finished as distant runners-up to Liverpool in the previous campaign, yet still managed to secure their third straight second-place finish in England's top flight. While it represented a step back domestically, they showed progress in European competition, though injury setbacks ultimately hindered their pursuit across multiple competitions.
The hiring of Andrea Berta as sporting director sparked optimism that this summer would bring significant changes, and the Italian has thus far satisfied fans by facilitating a costly transfer period. Only Liverpool have exceeded the spending of these consistent title challengers, and Arsenal might still have more business to complete as the deadline approaches.
Nevertheless, the Gunners also face other pressing matters before the transfer window closes.
Another Defender... Apparently
Arsenal's impressive capture of Eberechi Eze from under Tottenham Hotspur's noses means they've strengthened Mikel Arteta's roster with seven fresh faces this summer, yet the Spanish manager clearly remains unsatisfied with the limited defensive reinforcements.
Transfer windows seldom pass without Arteta enhancing his defensive line, and Arsenal have thus far secured just one defender in 2025: Valencia's Cristhian Mosquera. The Gunners appear well-equipped defensively, particularly following Mosquera's signing, and many fans had anticipated the club would make one final attempt at the left-wing position, even following Eze's acquisition.
Nevertheless, it appears Arteta will achieve his objective by strengthening the left flank of his defense through the potential addition of Bayer Leverkusen's Piero Hincapié, who seeks an exit from Bayer Leverkusen and has been connected with a transfer to, predictably, Arsenal's bitter north London adversaries.
The Gunners are simply investigating the opportunity, with Hincapié being a defender capable of offering versatility at left centre-back and left-back positions, much like Riccardo Calafiori. He would represent an improvement over their existing backup options, though Arsenal must offload players before accelerating their chase for the Ecuadorian international.
Focus on Sales
Arsenal have thus far struggled to remove unwanted players from Mikel Arteta's squad as their net expenditure continues to accumulate.
Leverkusen allegedly demand approximately €60 million (£52 million, $70.1 million) for Hincapié's signature, meaning any agreement would push the Gunners' transfer spending past the €350 million threshold.
They face some financial maneuvering to avoid potential PSR complications, and the club hopes to move five players before the deadline. Porto have expressed interest in Jakub Kiwior, while Oleksandr Zinchenko, Fabio Vieira, Albert Sambi Lokonga and Reiss Nelson remain available for departure. They have been throughout the summer.
Currently, it appears Arsenal may need to accept loan arrangements.
New Contract for Cornerstones
Beyond transfers, Arsenal have crucial matters to address regarding contract negotiations.
The Gunners have performed admirably during Arteta's reign in securing their key players to long-term agreements, minimizing transfer speculation. They've already extended Gabriel's deal through 2029 this summer, and are negotiating fresh contracts for Bukayo Saka and William Saliba.
With both agreements expiring in 2027, there isn't necessarily urgent pressure for either player to commit immediately, though securing their futures sooner would be advantageous.
The club maintains confidence that both stars will agree to extensions, with the duo currently earning close to £200,000 weekly, according to Spotrac. Kai Havertz remains the club's top earner (£280,000 weekly), though there's speculation these substantial new contracts could potentially exceed the German's generous salary.