As Arsenal put their plans into place for the summer transfer window, there are moments in which the hierarchy will have to be flexible.
Opportunities come and go quickly in the market, with the Gunners needing to pivot quickly if a player they want becomes available.
While Andrea Berta will have his targets, it’s clear that Arsenal want to strengthen at striker, on the left wing and in the goalkeeping ranks at the bare minimum.
However, even with those options, the summer transfer window has offered up another key change for the Gunners, this time driven from the top.
It’s a switch in approach that fans have called for, while it will likely impress Bukayo Saka, too.
Arsenal looking at a transfer to compete with Bukayo Saka
In those key positions Arsenal are eyeing up, there have already been some frontrunners to consider for a transfer.
In goal, Arsenal are advancing in talks to sign Kepa Arrizabalaga, with a deal from Chelsea expected in the coming days.
Up front, Benjamin Sesko appears to be the frontrunner for Arsenal as discussions continue to move forward over some of the other options.
Then there’s the left-wing, where names such as Rodrygo, Nico Williams and more continue to be on the club’s radar.
However, it’s not just the left flank that could get bolstered, as David Ornstein revealed that the right wing is also under consideration for a new signing.
Speaking on The Athletic FC about priorities for Arsenal, the journalist said: “Arsenal are focusing on a new number nine, whether it’s going to be a Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres.
“They also want a top-quality wide player, I think ideally on the left side. You’ve seen names like Rodrygo, Anthony Gordon and various others, Nico Williams we’ve talked about before.
“They would also like some back-up for Bukayo Saka on the right, that’s why they targeted Bryan Mbeumo.”
For Saka in particular, this could come as a major boost as he gets a proper rotation option beyond him to help take some of the slack.
Arsenal need to protect Bukayo Saka with new transfer option
As Arsenal look to bolster their right-wing options, Saka will almost definitely be delighted to see the club move for some backup in his position.
The forward has held down the position since he made his breakthrough from the Hale End academy, making it his own with plenty of impressive performances.
However, that has meant he has had to carry that burden, starting almost every game in every competition when fit and available.
With Saka’s long-term injury during the past season and plans to play Ethan Nwaneri as a number ten in the future, it’s clear that another option is needed.
By offering that, it could well delight the England international, which may help Arsenal in their contract talks with Saka.
With Mbeumo preferring a move to Manchester United, it remains to be seen just who could fill that role this summer.
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