4 positions Arsenal must strengthen during the summer transfer window

2. Central midfield

Thomas Partey’s inability to stay fit means Arsenal could do with signing another defensive midfield option this summer, but the Gunners must address their left central midfield spot first.

Granit Xhaka enjoyed what was arguably his best season for the club last time out and that may raise one or two questions over the need to bolster this position. Well, first of all, Xhaka’s future is up in the air and, secondly, the Swiss performed close to his apex in 2021/22. It’s hard to see him improving upon what we saw last season.

Thus, for Arsenal to reach that next level, whatever that might be, an upgrade on Xhaka is required.

The Gunners need a smooth operator from the left half-space. A technically proficient midfielder who’s comfortable functioning in tight spaces and is capable of rotating positions to ensure that Arteta’s system works at its full capacity. Xhaka, considering his relative lack of athleticism, interchanged well with teammates last season as Arteta’s left-hand side rotations often confused opposing defences.

Ideally, the desired target will have the legs to provide cover in defensive transition, too. You can’t leave Partey on an island.

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