Arteta Fights Back: Arsenal Pursue Bold Transfer Move After Vinicius Jr Rejection

Arteta Fights Back: Arsenal Pursue Bold Transfer Move After Vinicius Jr Rejection

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has acknowledged the club are "trying" to bring in more top-quality players after failing to secure Vinícius Júnior from Real Madrid.

The Brazilian star's decision to extend his contract has added to what has been a frustrating summer for Arsenal, who also lost out on Morgan Rogers to Chelsea and are reportedly behind Liverpool in the race for Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola.

The acquisition of Bruno Guimarães from Newcastle United offered some encouragement for the Gunners, but Arteta is still hungry for further additions.

"That's what we're trying to do," Arteta said following Sunday's loss to Borussia Dortmund when pressed on whether supporters should expect additional signings.

"It has to be the right player in the market to make us significantly better. We are very much looking forward to that."

Which Players Could Arsenal Sign?

Ezri Konsa

Arsenal find themselves in a difficult position as the summer transfer window enters its final weeks.

While Arteta may be seeking reinforcements, the truth is Arsenal are not particularly close to bolstering their squad, having so openly chased Rogers and Vinícius Jr. up to this point. A new left winger remains a top priority, even though the exit of Leandro Trossard to Beşiktaş was partially offset by the arrival of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge. An upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli could elevate Arsenal to a whole new level.

Barcola remains an option but is expected to command an enormous fee, while alternatives available at this stage of the window are limited. AC Milan's Rafael Leão and Athletic Club's Nico Williams are among those who could potentially still be attainable.

A new center back is also on Arteta's radar, having recently conceded it will be some time before key defender William Saliba recovers from a back injury. At right back, Jurriën Timber continues to manage a groin issue and is set to miss the beginning of the season.

Enable functional cookies to see this feature.

Ezri Konsa of Aston Villa is believed to be high on Arsenal's shortlist. The Guardian reports that an initial bid has already been turned down, with Villa holding firm for $81 million (£60 million).

There has also been reported interest in unsettled Tottenham Hotspur center back Cristian Romero, though the fierce rivalry between the two clubs is likely to put an end to any serious pursuit before it gains momentum.

Arsenal have until Sept. 1 to wrap up their transfer activity. While three weeks might seem like ample time, the reality is that high-profile deals often take considerably longer to finalize and can grow even more complex toward the end of the window, when selling clubs tend to become more reluctant to part with players without securing replacements first.

Don't miss a story

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox.