Mikel Arteta has hinted the January transfer window could be used to sort out the futures of Arsenal players set to leave in the summer.
Speaking in a press conference via Football London, the Basque manager revealed discussions are taking place surrounding those with uncertain futures at the club. Alexandre Lacazette, Eddie Nketiah and Mohamed Elneny are just some of the players whose contracts expire in 2022.
While Arteta did say there were no big plans for spending in January, the Arsenal boss said that situation could change if players leave in the winter. Numerous players are likely to be targeted because of their contract situations.
When asked what business could take place for Arsenal in January, Arteta was composed over how he thinks the winter market will play out.
The Arsenal manager said: “We are in discussions. We have talks every week about it. What happens in the January window can affect our squad.
Arteta added: “As you know we have certain players with uncertainty in the summer, so we have to plan now and the summer. We don’t expect big things happening but we have to be very alert and prepared in the market.”
January could be another hectic month for Arsenal
January 2021 was one of the most effective months Arsenal had in their modern history. Arteta and Edu Gaspar oversaw the departures of three players on big contracts, and there’s a feeling heading into 2022 this could be another hectic window for the Gunners.
With four players having their contracts expire in the summer and the futures of the likes of Bernd Leno, Pablo Mari and Rob Holding up in the air, January could see a hive of activity at Arsenal once again.
Indeed, it’s likely we’ll see some departures from the north London side in January. And, given the size of the squad, it could be a blessing in disguise if some players leave Arsenal.
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