Arsenal face Martin Zubimendi transfer battle in January amid Mikel Arteta Man City response

The January transfer window is fast approaching and Arsenal are not lacking in motivation to attack the market. Despite losing sporting director Edu Gaspar, the reality is that Mikel Arteta’s squad needs reinforcements.

The injuries this season have been far more prevalent and frequent than in previous seasons leaving the gap to the top considerable. With a run of favourable London-exclusive games coming up in the league and the chance to build some momentum, the window marks a point where the team can inject some additional quality.

There are needs in the forward line as a priority but with so many injuries suffered in midfield and defence, no area should be ruled out. The Gunners are not going to be alone either as their rivals look to strengthen too.

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Manchester City have lost Rodri until at least the end of the current campaign. Since the departure of Fernandinho, the club have not had too much success in adding depth to the role with Kalvin Phillips turning into a disastrous addition and spending the past year on loan with West Ham and Ipswich Town.

"Next season he will be here,” Guardiola said of Rodri in September. “This season is over [for him]. It is what it is.

"Unfortunately, we got the worst [news] but it is what it is at this level. Sometimes, unfortunately, it happens.

“We are just there to support him and [help him make a] good recovery, step by step, and move forward. What he gives us, we don't have a similar player but the other players altogether can replace what Rodri has given since arriving here with us.”

Martin Zubimendi was chased by Liverpool in the summer but he opted to remain at Real Sociedad. City reportedly appear to be winding up for their own attempt as well and while Arsenal are not a side looking at the Spaniard, the expectation to spend will only grow should Guardiola’s squad make a move.

Considering the money which has come in, the club have the ability to spend and the prospect of City and potentially Liverpool spending this winter will raise the stakes. Arteta will be working with the internal recruitment team without the now-resigned Edu, although work would have been done prior to his decision to leave.

Jason Ayto, then-assistant to Edu, will take a leading role while the scouting group, head of recruitment and managing director Richard Garlick will also be involved. A fun festive period to come and then the pressure of the market to follow.