Mikel Arteta reveals Arsenal plan for ‘next level’ transfer signing

The Premier League leaders are expected to look for new signings in the January transfer window to bolster their title challenge.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has said the Gunners will only search for players that can take them to ‘the next level’ in January.

Arteta favors a calm and measured approach for next month’s transfer window. Like any coach, the Spaniard would welcome new signings, but only if they can help the Premier League table-toppers improve.

“We are going to be active, and active means always looking to strengthen the team,” Arteta said in a press conference on Thursday.

“This squad still doesn’t have the luxury of not maximizing every single window. We have to do that because it’s really important. But then we want to get the right profile, the right player; a player that is really going to impact the team and take us to the next level.”

Various reports in the media have linked Arsenal with a January move for Shakhtar Donetsk winger Mykhaylo Mudryk.

There is also a possibility Arteta’s side could search for a new striker after Gabriel Jesus’ knee injury. The Brazilian has undergone surgery, but he could face around three months on the sidelines.

Arsenal return from the World Cup break on Monday for a Boxing Day clash with West Ham in the Premier League. They currently hold a five-point lead over Manchester City in the league standings.