Arsenal confirm four player exits

Despite ending in electric form, Arsenal’s season will be something of a disappointment as they look forward to a term without European football, following on from FA Cup success last year. 

Mikel Arteta had to work hard to get much inspiration out of the team at times, but former Lille winger Nicolas Pepe was one of a few who earmarked this season as a breakout on an individual basis – following a £72m move the previous year.

The run of five successive victories, that saw the club rise to eighth, will have done enough to get Gunners fans excited for the new season ahead at least, and they will now know the names of four players that they’ll definitely be doing it without.

The club confirmed that, following the expiry of their contracts, goalkeeper Mat Ryan, defender David Luiz and midfielders Dani Cabellos and Martin Odegaard will all depart the Emirates Stadium.

Supporters might have hoped to keep Martin Odegaard in particular, but his move reportedly being blocked by new Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti.

The 22-year-old Norwegian had made 15 appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring twice. The Brazilian Luiz had made 53 since his arrival from Chelsea, Cabellos – also on loan from Madrid – featured in 49 league appearances over the two-year spell and Australian stopper Ryan on just three occasions in the top flight.

The press release also brought information that Under-23 and Under-19 players Levi Laing, Joseph Olowu, Luke Plange and Jason Sraha were also released.

As we approach another summer of transfers, where should Arteta and his Arsenal staff be looking to bolster their squad – taking into account today’s outgoings?