‘Mikel Arteta to pay with his job after Arsenal transfer shock’
Mikel Arteta’s job as Arsenal boss is the line at the Emirates after a major surprise emerged during the January transfer window.
The Gunners have faced an attacking injury crisis this season, with Bukayo Saka, Ethan Nwaneri, and Gabriel Jesus all sidelined for extended periods.
Given these setbacks, fans expect Arsenal to prioritise signing a forward. It’s no secret that they are targeting Alexander Isak, with the Swedish striker a top priority for the summer.
However, while many fans are hoping for news of a forward to bolster the injury-hit front line, Arteta and the club appear focused on a high-cost signing that doesn’t address the team’s pressing, current needs.
Arsenal closing in on Martin Zubimendi but problems persist
The North London club are reportedly finalising a deal for Martin Zubimendi, with the transfer “virtually completed” for the summer, according to the Daily Mail.
The move is expected to involve activating the Spanish midfielder’s £51 million release clause, which must be paid upfront. This significant financial commitment would take a large portion of Arsenal’s summer budget [The Athletic].
The focus on midfield depth suggests Arsenal see it as a necessity over immediate solutions for their injury-hit attack.
With the club planning to allow Thomas Partey to leave when his contract expires, adding a midfielder was anticipated. However, a £51 million outlay — if paid in one lump sum — raises questions about priorities. Their attack is the glaring current problem but it looks like the club are prioritising other issues instead.
Gunners fans could turn on Mikel Arteta sooner rather than later
With Arteta focusing on securing a big-money central midfielder in the summer window, it will likely reduce the club’s chances of investing heavily in forward positions.
It’s expected to cost a British transfer record — over £115m — for Newcastle to even consider selling their star player, Isak. Given this, such a move seems unlikely.
It’s baffling, then, that Arsenal are willing to spend such a sum on a midfielder. They still haven’t addressed the pressing needs in their attack with a striker and winger.
Fans have already expressed frustration with Arteta. If another season passes without silverware or action on the forward line, backlash against the manager could intensify.
In other news, Crystal Palace have responded to Arsenal interest in their player.
For more news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.