Arsenal’s 2023-24 season was a season of progress, as discussed in our season review article. However, the Gunners have some crucial decisions to make this summer. This includes a contract extension for Mikel Arteta as well as major incomings and outgoings. Without further ado, let’s discuss Arsenal’s important 2024 summer.
Arsenal 2024 Summer Part 1: Extend Mikel Arteta’s Contract
One decision that seems relatively straightforward is what to do about Mikel Arteta’s contract, which runs out after next season. Arteta has transformed Arsenal from a club that fell from grace after many years of success back to a Premier League title contender with a strong culture and a great team. Given that fact, Arsenal should extend his contract as soon as possible.
Arteta appears committed to Arsenal long-term but other clubs will surely try to tempt him away if Arsenal performs well next season. It is vital that Arsenal agrees a contract extension with Arteta this summer. That is the first objective the Gunners need to complete before moving onto anything else.
Add Another Defensive Midfielder
Declan Rice had a fantastic first season with Arsenal. That being said, Rice is at his best when he can roam forward and contribute to the Gunners’ attack while someone else handles the responsibilities of a more traditional defensive midfielder. It is important to note that both Thomas Partey’s contract and Jorginho’s contract run out after next season.
Jorginho is unlikely to return to Arsenal after next season and may even retire at that point. Partey has had many injury issues since joining Arsenal. Considering all of this, the Gunners need to sign another defensive midfielder in order to form a strong, long-lasting midfield partnership.
Bruno Guimaraes, who currently plays for Newcastle United, is the main midfielder linked with Arsenal so far this summer. Guimaraes is an excellent player who defends well and passes the ball well. His versatility is one reason why both Arsenal and Manchester City want to sign him. His pressing in offensive areas and well-timed tackles also add to his appeal as a transfer target.
He can be a tad overaggressive at times, though, which is a bit of a concern. However, at 24 years old, Guimaraes has time to improve even further as a player. In any case, Arsenal need to sign another midfielder this summer.
Arsenal 2024 Summer Part 1: Add Depth In Defense And On The Right Wing
Additionally, Arsenal should add another right-winger to the team. Bukayo Saka is a superstar and dislodging him from Arsenal’s starting lineup in most games will prove extremely challenging for anyone. His quality and humble attitude are why any merchandise related to him tends to sell out quickly. Despite his immense ability, Saka does need to rest sometimes, especially given how physical opposing teams are when defending against him.
Nico Williams is one winger that has been linked with Arsenal. Williams does play on the left wing and convincing him to leave his boyhood club Athletic Bilbao could be challenging. However, Williams can play on the right wing, too. According to Transfermarkt, Nico Williams’ current transfer value is 50 million euros. That would be a good deal, given his quality and age.
Also, Arsenal need to add depth in defense. Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba are the best center-back pairing in the English Premier League. Ben White is an excellent but underrated right-back. However, Zinchenko doesn’t exactly fit Arsenal’s current style and Kiwior is still quite young. Takehiro Tomiyasu has struggled with injuries since arriving at the club, despite his obvious quality when fit.
The Gunners should look to sign a versatile defender to improve their defensive depth. Jurrien Timber returning to full fitness is a major boost for Arsenal’s defense, but Arsenal need more defensive depth to overcome Manchester City in next season’s Premier League title race.
The Summer Transfer Window Opens on June 14th
The summer transfer window opens for the English Premier League on June 14th. As a result, there will be more Arsenal transfer rumors in the coming weeks. There may even be more concrete links to some transfer targets. We will cover that as the weeks go on, so check back next week for more Arsenal content.