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Transfers
Arsenal are eyeing late transfer move which Ian Wright has been asking for
Arsenal look set for a busy end to the window with potential outgoings and incomings as Mikel Arteta streamlines his squad at the Emirates.
Mikel Arteta has done a fantastic job at Arsenal and this season’s start only echoes that, with Gary Lineker even stating that Arteta may be owed an apology for criticism over some of his decision-making.
David Raya was a signing that not many were fond of with Aaron Ramsdale the clear Arsenal number one at the time, but many fans are now left eating their words as the Spaniard has switched places.
In fact, Southampton are interested in signing Ramsdale late in the window, which could see him leave the Emirates in a deal in which could be permanent.
However, it’s not only outgoings that are being looked at in the remaining days as Mikel Arteta may just have another trick up his sleeve…
Arsenal want to sign a back-up for Bukayo Saka after Ian Wright’s suggestion
Bukayo Saka already has a goal and two assists to his name in the opening two Premier League games of the current campaign to follow on from his 20 goals and 14 assists in all competitions last season.
However, there’s a concern that he could burn out at Arsenal with very little cover currently at the Emirates.
It appears as if this is already a worry for Mikel Arteta too as Ben Jacobs has stated that the Gunners are looking at a potential back-up for the Englishman, when speaking on Arsenal related YouTube channel .
“I was always told they’re looking for more like a squad player, a back-up to Bukayo Saka. Somebody that like Merino, might not necessarily perceive that they’re going to start every game and can slot in as a character and a footballer for the squad.”
What has Ian Wright been saying?
Interestingly, Ian Wright called for Arsenal to sign a back-up to Bukayo Saka earlier on in the transfer window.
“Look at those guys, the main guys, Saka, Saliba, Rice, Gabriel, none of those guys got injured and it’s a big worry,” Wright said.
“It was good to see Saka get taken off with 10 minutes to go. Obviously there are still signings to be made and some kind of cover for Saka would be helpful, because the levels he’s getting to and the amount of games he’s playing, at some stage he does need a break.”
Ian Wright knows a thing or two about success having lifted the Premier League title at Highbury, as well as many other pieces of silverware. He still stands as the club’s second highest goalscorer of all-time, placing just behind Thierry Henry who sits at the top.
He’s right. Having enough squad depth is vital when you’re challenging on all fronts like Arsenal are. An injury to your star player has the potential to derail a season when they contribute as much as Saka does.