Sources claim one Arsenal January transfer is now ‘a lot less likely’ after Bukayo Saka injury

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Arsenal have been rocked by the recent blow of Bukayo Saka’s injury.

Bukayo Saka had to come off in the first half of Arsenal’s 5-1 thrashing of Crystal Palace on Saturday after hurting his hamstring. 

Saka could now be injured for more than a month, as a potential timeline for the winger’s recovery has come to light. This could see the talismanic winger miss a number of key fixtures.

Mikel Arteta will now be concocting a plan for how he might cope without the Hale End academy graduate in the new year. 

Gabriel Martinelli did well in Saka’s position on Saturday, after he was shifted across to the right flank of the Gunners’ attack at Selhurst Park. The Brazilian is perhaps in pole position to deputise for Saka at this point. 

However, Arteta has alternative options that he can call upon in this part of the pitch, as Gabriel Jesus, Raheem Sterling, and Leandro Trossard can all operate on the right wing.

• READ MORE: Everything to know on Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka from his age, parents and house

Leandro Trossard future decided by Bukayo Saka injury

Given the options at Arteta’s disposal, the Spanish coach is unlikely to turn to the January transfer window for a means of covering for the injured Saka.

However, the 23-year-old’s fitness blow could still have transfer ramifications at the Emirates Stadium this winter.

Speaking exclusively to Arsenal Insider, transfer expert Graeme Bailey has now revealed that one player may well be suck in North London until the end of the season following Saka’s misfortune.

He stated: “One thing the Saka injury does do, is that it means a possible departure for someone like Leandro Trossard is a lot less likely.”

Will Arsenal sell Trossard in the summer?

Trossard has enjoyed a fair amount of game time so far this season, as he has racked up 24 appearances across all competitions. In that time he has contributed 4 goals and 2 assists.

However, the 30-year-old may not be entirely satisfied with this level of involvement, as he will be keen to start games week in, week out at this stage of his career.

Trossard has clashed with Arteta in the past over his game time at Arsenal, which has caused friction between the duo. 

However, Trossard has come under fire from Arsenal fans this season at times, as he has not always been able to deliver when he has been called upon. 

There is certainly a sense that Trossard’s time at the Emirates Stadium could be drawing to a conclusion, but an exit will almost certainly have to wait until the summer now.