As the 2025/26 Premier League season approaches, Arsenal Football Club has been making waves in the transfer market, bolstering their squad under the guidance of manager Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta. With the transfer window in full swing, the Gunners have already secured several high-profile signings and are linked with more potential additions. Here’s the latest on Arsenal’s transfer activities as of August 2025.
Confirmed Signings
Arsenal have been proactive, adding six new players to their squad this summer, significantly strengthening their lineup:
- Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP): The Swedish striker, signed for an initial £54.8 million plus £10 million in add-ons, is set to take the iconic No. 14 shirt, previously worn by Arsenal legend Thierry Henry. Gyokeres, with 97 goals and 28 assists in his time at Sporting, is expected to bring a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack with his relentless running and clinical finishing. His medical was completed, and he’s already in the squad for pre-season friendlies.
- Noni Madueke (Chelsea): The winger’s move from rivals Chelsea was finalized, with the 23-year-old expressing excitement about joining Arsenal. His versatility to play on either wing adds depth to the attack.
- Cristhian Mosquera (Valencia): The young Spanish defender rejected contract extensions at Valencia to join Arsenal, with the deal now in advanced stages. His arrival strengthens the backline alongside William Saliba and Jakub Kiwior.
- Kepa Arrizabalaga (Chelsea): The goalkeeper’s permanent move to Arsenal adds experience between the posts, though he missed a recent pre-season match due to a minor injury.
- Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad): The midfielder’s signing bolsters Arsenal’s engine room, providing control and composure in the center of the park.
- Christian Norgaard (Brentford): Another midfield addition, Norgaard brings tenacity and Premier League experience to Arteta’s squad.
These signings, totaling over £200 million in spending, signal Arsenal’s ambition to challenge for the Premier League title after finishing second in 2022/23.
Potential Targets
Arsenal’s transfer business may not be done yet, with several players heavily linked to the Emirates:
- Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace): The attacking midfielder remains a top target, with Arsenal reportedly in contact with his camp since June. While his £68 million release clause has been a sticking point, the Gunners are exploring a player-plus-cash deal, potentially involving Reiss Nelson, to secure his signature. Sources indicate Arsenal have pressed Crystal Palace to make a decision, offering to pay the clause in three installments.
- Jeremy Jacquet (Rennes): The 20-year-old French center-back has caught Arsenal’s attention, but any move may hinge on the departure of current defenders like Oleksandr Zinchenko or Jakub Kiwior.
- Rodrygo (Real Madrid): The Brazilian winger continues to be linked with Arsenal, though Real Madrid’s stance on his future remains firm. A move seems unlikely but not entirely ruled out.
- Ademola Lookman (Atalanta): Despite the winger submitting a transfer request, Arsenal are reportedly not prioritizing him this summer.
Potential Departures
To balance the books and comply with profit and sustainability rules, Arsenal are expected to focus on player sales in the final weeks of the transfer window:
- Oleksandr Zinchenko: The versatile left-back could leave if a suitable offer arrives, with his departure potentially paving the way for new defensive signings like Jacquet.
- Jakub Kiwior: Interest from other clubs has put the Polish defender’s future in doubt, with Arsenal open to offers.
- Gabriel Jesus: The Brazilian striker’s role may be under threat with Gyokeres’ arrival, and a return to his homeland has been mooted.
- Leandro Trossard: The winger picked up a groin injury in a recent pre-season friendly against Tottenham, but his future remains uncertain amid interest from other clubs.
- Reiss Nelson: The academy graduate is reportedly close to a move to Fulham, which could facilitate negotiations for Eze.
Youth Prospects
Arsenal’s focus isn’t solely on big-name signings. Young attacking midfielder Max Dowman has impressed in pre-season friendlies against AC Milan and Newcastle, earning praise for his potential. Having trained with the first team since age 14, Dowman is tipped for a possible Premier League debut this season.
Women’s Team Updates
Arsenal Women have also been active, with stars like Michelle Agyemang shining at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, where she was named Young Player of the Tournament. However, the club saw departures, including Chloe Kelly to Manchester City and Anneke Borbe to Wolfsburg, as their contracts expired.
Pre-Season Insights
Arsenal’s pre-season campaign has been a mixed bag, with a recent 1-0 loss to Tottenham in Hong Kong highlighting areas for improvement. Despite the defeat, new signings like Gyokeres and Madueke were included in the squad, offering fans a glimpse of what’s to come. Arteta emphasized the need to address last season’s shortcomings, particularly in converting draws into wins, as the Gunners aim to end their 20-year Premier League title drought.
Looking Ahead
With the Premier League season kicking off soon, Arsenal’s transfer activity has positioned them as serious contenders. The addition of proven talents like Gyokeres and emerging stars like Mosquera, combined with Arteta’s tactical acumen, sets the stage for an exciting campaign. However, the potential acquisition of Eze or another marquee signing could be the final piece in the puzzle. Keep an eye on street.co.ke for the latest updates as the transfer window nears its close.
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