Arsenal targeting three key areas in January transfer window

Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge took a huge blow on Thursday as they were beaten 2-0 by West Ham United at The Emirates. 

Midfielder Tomas Soucek put the Hammers ahead early on, before former Arsenal man Konstantinos Mavropanos doubled their advantage after the break.

David Moyes’ side could have extended their lead when their former captain Declan Rice gave away a penalty in added time, but Said Benrahma’s spot-kick was saved by David Raya.

The result leaves Arsenal second in the top flight table, two points behind current leaders Liverpool.

With the January transfer window fast approaching, it appears that the Gunners are planning to bolster Arteta’s squad.

Arteta is keen to add to his squad next month

As per Football Insider, the North London outfit are hoping to sign a centre-back, central midfielder, and striker when the window reopens next month.

Last season Arsenal topped the Premier League table for several months before ultimately finishing second behind Manchester City, and Arteta will therefore be keen to bolster his squad in an effort to go one better this time around.

The report claims that the club’s recruitment team have held internal talks and decided that the three areas will be their priority during the January transfer window.

Despite signing Rice from West Ham over the summer for more than £100 million, Arteta is keen to add to his options in central midfield.

Thomas Partey, who played an integral role for Arteta’s side last term, has been injured for much of the current season, while Jorginho is set to be out of contract next summer.

Fulham’s Joao Palhinha, who was close to joining Bayern Munich over the summer, is said to be one of Arsenal’s top midfield targets.