Arsenal have been told why they must sign two players before the January transfer window closes.

The Gunners have until 11pm on Monday night to complete their transfer business before the window slams shut until the summer. Several players have already been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal are yet to strengthen their squad during the current window.

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins emerged as a target for Arsenal last week. Reports claimed that the Gunners had a £60million bid rejected by Villa hours before the Champions League win over Girona.

READ MORE: Watkins signs, wonderkid U-turn, Kimmich agreement - Arsenal dream transfer deadline day scenario

READ MORE: Three deals Arsenal are working to complete on transfer deadline day

Ex-Arsenal star Paul Merson has explained why his former club should sign Watkins before the deadline. Merson also argued why the Gunners would be wise to sign a new centre-back, namely AC Milan star Fikayo Tomori.

Tomori, a former Chelsea defender, has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur in recent days. Merson believes the signing of Tomori would be a major boost to the squad depth available to Mikel Arteta.

"I think they need a forward and I would go for Fikayo Tomori," Merson told Sky Sports. "They need a centre half. If you're looking at the all-round package over the next few years, you're looking at a very good player.

"He has played at a top club for AC Milan and Chelsea, he's played under pressure. That's what you need at a top club like Arsenal.

"He might be a back-up. But that can change quickly. But Arsenal need back-up and someone who is going to come in like-for-like. As soon as William Saliba or Gabriel come out the team, whoever steps into that defensive line weakens the team. That's no disrespect to them, because the other two are so good.

"And the forward? I'd go get Ollie Watkins. He's proven, he ticks the boxes big time for Arsenal."