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Arsenal still have one unticked agenda item in the summer transfer window (it's not a forward)

Arsenal can still make one significant update to their squad
Arsenal FC v Coventry City - Premier League 2026/27
Arsenal FC v Coventry City - Premier League 2026/27 | Marc Atkins/GettyImages

Arsenal have done a solid job at strengthening key areas of their squad over the summer, but there's still one area where they could make a drastic upgrade, which would significantly bolster their chances of pulling off an unprecedented quadruple this season.

The Gunners have added one of the best midfielders in the world in Bruno Guimaraes, who will provide Mikel Arteta's team with assurances when Declan Rice is unavailable or needs a rest, while also adding increased attacking impetus. They've also replaced Leandro Trossard with a younger version of the Belgian in Christos Tzolis, which seems like sensible business based on what the Greek has provided so far.

On top of this, Ezri Konsa has arrived to solve the short-term issue of not having William Saliba available for several months. Everyone is aware that a superstar attacker would be the cherry on the cake, but it looks increasingly likely that a deal on this front won't materialise for a multitude of complex reasons.

However, there is one more piece of business that the Gunners should look to do between now and the end of the window, and it could make a huge difference.


Arsenal should replace Kepa Arrizabalaga before the window closes

When Arsenal acquired Kepa Arrizabalaga last summer, it looked like a sensible signing. For just £5million, they were getting an experienced goalkeeper of some pedigree, who would be a dependable back-up for David Raya when called upon.

He filled this role successfully until his notoriously bad performance in the Carabao Cup final, where he essentially cost the Gunners silverware. From that point onwards, Kepa has looked unconvincing every time he's played, even if this has largely been throughout pre-season.

The Spaniard looks devoid of confidence, and this has led to him being completely incapable of keeping basically any shot out. The pre-season matches saw him concede multiple goals which looked rather saveable.

David Raya has a remarkable fitness record, so the number one sustaining an injury isn't probable, but it is always possible. By potentially having to rely on Kepa for an extended period, Arsenal are risking the floor of their season falling out from beneath them.

Having the former Chelsea shot-stopper as a number two most likely won't turn out to be a big deal, but if Arsenal want to leave no screws unturned, then they should make this simple upgrade. The Gunners have aspirations of winning all four trophies available to them this term, and they likely cannot achieve this incredible feat with Kepa starting a good number of games.


Who could replace Kepa?

Arsenal have already signed a goalkeeper this summer, adding Illan Meslier to their ranks for free. However, the Frenchman is viewed as a replacement for Tommy Setford, who is expected to go out on loan, and probably isn't of the required level to take the number two shirt.

Thus, the Gunners should turn their attention to some romatic options which would certainly boost morale around the Emirates.

Aaron Ramsdale is currently rotting in Southampton's reserves. As much as he has seemingly struggled in recent seasons, the England international would be a capable Raya deputy, if he's willing to return to Arsenal in this capacity.

Elsewhere, Wojciech Szczesny would surely be open to a return to the club he's publicly expressed his love for numerous times. While still the number two at Barcelona, a small fee would surely tempt the Catalan club into sanctioning the Pole's departure.

Alternatively, Arsenal could use their vast array of scouting networks and extensive pool of data to source someone more interesting. The key is to ensure that Kepa doesn't need to be relied upon next term.

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