International sports

Arsenal ‘short of numbers’ after £123m spend – Arteta

Mikel Arteta said Arsenal are “short on numbers” and are looking to “improve the the depth and quality” of the squad.

The Gunners have been busy in the transfer market and have completed deals for Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke for a total of about £123.5m.

They are also still in negotiations for the 73.5m euros (£63.5m) transfer of Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres and working to bring in young defender Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia.

Arsenal had been hoping to finalise a deal for Sweden international Gyokeres and include him on their pre-season tour but a transfer has yet to be completed, although Arteta has not ruled out new signings joining them in Asia.

“I cannot comment on any player who is not part of our group yet. When we have something concrete to offer in any case to any player, we will do that,” Arteta said when asked about the arrival of 27-year-old Gyokeres.

Asked whether there could be more new signings joining his 30-man squad while they are travelling, Arteta said: “There’s still a long time in the window and we are seeking still.

“In terms of numbers, we are short and we have to improve the depth and quality of the squad. We are constantly looking in the market.

“Until that happens, [we] focus on the players we have – and I’m very pleased with what I have seen in the last 10-15 days.”

Arsenal are in Singapore for matches against AC Milan and Newcastle before they travel to Hong Kong for a game with rivals Tottenham.

Speaking in Singapore about his new signings ahead of Arsenal’s match against AC Milan on Wednesday, Arteta added: “It’s like shaking the tree again.

“New faces… they bring new excitement, new energy as well. We signed very important players as well. I think everybody feels that the heights have to go to different level and it’s what we are seeking.”

Ogyem Solomon

Solomon Ogyem – Media Entrepreneur | Journalist | Brand Ambassador Solomon Ogyem is a dynamic Ghanaian journalist and media entrepreneur currently based in South Africa. With a solid foundation in journalism, Solomon is a graduate of the OTEC School of Journalism and Communication Studies in Ghana and Oxbridge Academy in South Africa. He began his career as a reporter at OTEC 102.9 MHz in Kumasi, where he honed his skills in news reporting, community storytelling, and radio broadcasting. His passion for storytelling and dedication to the media industry led him to establish Press MltiMedia Company in South Africa—a growing platform committed to authentic African narratives and multimedia journalism. Solomon is the founder and owner of Thepressradio.com, a news portal focused on delivering credible, timely, and engaging stories across Ghana and Africa. He also owns Press Global Tickets, a service-driven venture in the travel and logistics space, providing reliable ticketing services. He previously owned two notable websites—Ghanaweb.mobi and ShowbizAfrica.net—both of which contributed to entertainment and socio-political discussions within Ghana’s digital space. With a diverse background in media, digital journalism, and business, Solomon Ogyem is dedicated to telling impactful African stories, empowering youth through media, and building cross-continental media partnerships.

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