‘I am Certain’ — Arteta promises Arsenal fans

Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal Football Club, has suggested that the club could make additional signings this summer, despite already splurging over £200 million on strengthening the squad.

Arsenal’s ambitious investments aim to build on last season’s title challenge and establish a sustained period of success.

The Gunners kick-started their summer spending with the acquisition of Kai Havertz from London rivals Chelsea in a £65 million deal. The German international made his debut for Arsenal in their 1-1 draw against Nurnberg on Thursday.

This was followed by the signing of Jurrien Timber from Ajax for £38 million. Arsenal concluded their spending spree with the capture of Declan Rice from West Ham United, shelling out a club-record fee of £105 million to secure the services of the West Ham captain and making him the most expensive British player in history.

Havertz, Timber, and Rice have all been included in Arsenal’s 29-man squad for the team’s pre-season tour of the United States. The Gunners are set to face an MLS All-Star XI in Washington D.C. on Thursday, followed by a pre-season friendly against Manchester United in New Jersey on Saturday.

Despite the significant investment made so far, Arsenal remains linked with other potential targets. Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia and Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby are among the players reportedly on their radar.

Arteta has hinted at the possibility of further signings, stating,

“There is a lot of time still in the market and expectations with some of our players, so we will have to see how things develop in the next couple of weeks. We will be alert. There is still time to do things. There is still time for exits obviously, so I am sure things will move.”

Regarding Rice‘s integration into the squad following his move from West Ham, Arteta expressed positivity, stating,

“You all know about his leadership, his personality, and the experience that he already has at 24. It’s gone very smooth. I think he is already close with a few of the boys, he knew a few of them from the England camp, so yeah, he seems very happy.”

While Arsenal seeks to strengthen the squad, there are also discussions surrounding potential departures. Striker Folarin Balogun has been linked with a move away from the club, with Inter Milan reportedly interested.

However, the Italian club is unwilling to meet Arsenal’s £50 million asking price for the player. Arteta, seemingly reluctant to part ways with Balogun, plans to give the 22-year-old an opportunity to impress during pre-season.

“He’s done incredibly well,” Arteta commented, indicating that the club will assess the situation before making any decisions.

As Arsenal continues to shape their squad for the upcoming season, fans eagerly anticipate further developments in the transfer market as the club strives to achieve their goals.