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3 Premier League stars Arsenal must sign this summer
- Mikel Arteta has hinted at a busy summer transfer window
- Arsenal entering 'Phase 5' of the Spaniard's project
- Club linked with several Premier League stars
Arsenal may yet end the 2023/24 season as Premier League champions, but the message from Mikel Arteta is clear: he is not satisfied.
Some have alluded to 'Phase 5' of the Spaniard's project arriving at the start of the following campaign following back-to-back title charges. Silverware has eluded the club since 2020, and their Champions League exit pointed towards a club on its way to the very top, but one that isn't there just yet.
Following a quiet winter, a busy summer is expected in north London. The club boast disposable assets of value, and a shrewd window on the outgoings front could set the stage for a very exciting period for Arsenal supporters.
Links are already starting to emerge regarding the club's upcoming plans, although it's tough to pinpoint what exactly the Gunners' transfer priorities are this summer. You'd suspect that two forwards, including one winger, will be acquired, as well as a multi-faceted midfielder who'd work harmoniously with £105m man Declan Rice.
And instead of venturing overseas, Arsenal can find the ideal targets right here in the Premier League. Here are three from familiar shores the club must be looking at this summer.
1. Bruno Guimaraes
Guimaraes played a key role in Newcastle's rise under their new ownership, with the classy Brazilian immediately endearing himself to the Toon Army.
A great character who wears his heart on his sleeve, Guimaraes is much more than a classy midfield operator. He's primarily been used at the base of Newcastle's engine room, but many have wanted to see the former Lyon star unleashed in a less restricted #8 role.
Such versatility is very much necessary for an Arteta midfielder, although Pep Guardiola also has his eye on the Magpie star. Manchester City and Arsenal could go head-to-head in this transfer duel.
Guimaraes can be over-aggressive at times, and he's not a controlling midfield presence just yet, but he has the requisite technique and profile to evolve into an elite dictator for one of Europe's best.
Newcastle's midfield all-rounder would doubtlessly be content with a stay on Tyneside, but the allure of Champions League football, which the Magpies won't be offering him next season, could sway his thinking. The 26-year-old would fetch a fee considerably greater than the £40m Newcastle paid for him over two years ago.
Continued on the next slide...