Mikel Arteta is preparing for what could be a transformative 2025/26 season for Arsenal, with the club reportedly planning to invest around £250 million in new signings. Among the high-profile names linked with a move to the Emirates are Nico Williams, Viktor Gyokeres, and Martin Zubimendi, as Arsenal looks to strengthen multiple areas of the squad ahead of the new campaign.
Recent reports suggest personal terms have already been agreed with both Gyokeres and Zubimendi, indicating that significant changes could be on the horizon for Arteta’s side. As the team evaluates its performance from the current season — in which they managed just six clean sheets in 29 league matches — it’s clear that defensive reinforcements will be a priority.
Despite the defensive struggles, David Raya is expected to continue as the team’s number one goalkeeper. However, Arsenal are also targeting Joan Garcia as a potential backup option to provide additional depth between the sticks.
In central defense, Gabriel Magalhaes will likely be partnered once again by William Saliba, who is believed to be in talks over a contract extension amid reported interest from Real Madrid.
At left-back, young prospect Myles Lewis-Skelly has made a strong impression and could hold down the position, although the fitness and availability of Riccardo Calafiori might affect this arrangement. On the opposite flank, Ben White is expected to remain the preferred choice ahead of Jurrien Timber, who is still working his way back into the squad after an injury-hit period.
In midfield, the ever-reliable Declan Rice and captain Martin Odegaard are set to maintain their roles in the starting eleven. However, the future of Thomas Partey appears uncertain, especially if the club completes a deal for Real Sociedad’s Zubimendi.
With Partey’s contract nearing its end in June, a departure seems increasingly possible, a situation mirrored by Jorginho, who is widely tipped to leave, with Flamengo emerging as his likely destination.
Up front, Arsenal’s attack is expected to revolve around Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Viktor Gyokeres. If the club succeeds in adding Nico Williams to the ranks, it could further bolster the attacking options and give Arteta greater tactical flexibility.
A potential starting lineup for the new season could feature: Raya; Timber, Gabriel, Saliba, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, and Martinelli.
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