Mikel Arteta says the “necessity” for Arsenal to add to their squad has ramped up after injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.

Saka tore his hamstring in December and will be out of action until at least March, while Jesus is set for a long spell on the sidelines after injuring his knee earlier this month.

Arsenal had already been looking to add a forward to their squad before the injuries, but Arteta has admitted the need for one has increased.

The Gunners are going into Saturday’s game against Aston Villa with just four fit forwards as Ethan Nwaneri is out injured, too.

“We have lost two massive players for us in the front line and we need some support there,” said Arteta.

“Obviously we have more necessity now because of what happened in the last few weeks. That's obvious.

“I think it’s more a question for [interim sporting director] Jason [Ayto]. I don’t know, but I think we have to do what we think is right and we can do as well. And that’s it.

“It’s clear that we would like to improve the squad, especially with what happened. Can we do it or not depends on other factors.”

Arsenal are currently battling with Liverpool at the top of the Premier League and they are just four points off Arne Slot’s side, who have a game in hand.

Arteta, however, believes it is not just a two-horse race for the title and there is still a long way to go.

“I think when you look at every game in the Premier League and the margins and how teams are winning football matches it can go either way,” he said.

“In two or three weeks we could be talking about something different. We are still in January so it is going to be a long, long run.”