Mikel Arteta’s rebuild of Arsenal is almost complete, and the Spaniard now appears to be just two signings away from having a squad capable of bidding for glory domestically and on the European stage.
The Gunners kickstarted their 2025/26 campaign with a gritty 1-0 win over Manchester United last weekend, and their new-look XI will be keen to build on that performance and assert themselves as title contenders going forward.
Express Sport takes a look at how Arsenal’s new starting lineup could look when the transfer window closes…
Goalkeeper: David Raya
The Spaniard retains the faith of Arteta, and understandably so. Raya has developed into one of the Premier League’s best goalkeepers, and his ball-playing ability makes him a key part of Arsenal’s team. Kepa Arrizabalaga has been signed from Chelsea to provide cover for the ex-Brentford star, and he is an impressive No. 2 option.
Defence: Ben White, William Saliba, Gabriel, Riccardo Calafiori
Arteta is not short of depth across the back, with several stars expected to be in the running for his two full-back roles, especially with White now fully fit. Despite some speculation, Arsenal opted against bringing in another full-back, and an outgoing in that department is more likely in the shape of Oleksandr Zinchenko.
Saliba and Gabriel are viewed by the Gunners as their short and long-term centre-back partnership though, with Cristhian Mosquera arriving from Valencia to provide cover for the duo. The 21-year-old can also be deployed in right-back and will be a key asset when the Gunners look to rotate.
Midfield: Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, Eberechi Eze
The imminent arrival of Eze from Crystal Palace is the cherry on the cake for Arsenal in midfield. The England international provides an abundance of creativity and flair, whilst also relieving some of the pressure on the shoulders of Odegaard.
With Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard signed to provide alternative options in the midfield too, Arteta now has the players available to build his central trio based on his opposition – rather than having a midfield three that picks itself like in years gone by.
Forwards: Bukayo Saka, Viktor Gyokeres, Rodrygo
If the Gunners decide to end the transfer window in style, they may finally make a concrete approach for Rodrygo. The Real Madrid forward is weighing up his future, and Arsenal have made their long-term admiration of the Brazilian no secret.
A big-money fee would be required to sign Rodrygo, but it could quickly be justified if he can hit the ground running next to Gyokeres and highlight why he is an immediate upgrade on Gabriel Martinelli.