Mikel Arteta says Arsenal are open to bringing forward their summer transfer plans in the wake of injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.

The Gunners have been left short in attack following injuries to the pair, with Jesus not expected back this season.

Saka, who tore his hamstring last month, has undergone surgery and is not due back until March at the earliest.

Manager Arteta has spoken of the need to recruit in attack and he has now revealed how Arsenal are ready to “adapt” their transfer plans.

Arsenal were looking to sign a forward this summer, but those plans could be brought forward to this month.

“We never just plan ‘a window’,” said Arteta. “We have a plan, we look at the squad, how we are going to evolve it, what we have in the academy, how we are going to change and adapt.

“From there, what you plan and the picture that we have… either we are really bad at planning or nobody could see we would have that many injuries. You have to adapt whatever the plan is.”

Arsenal are admirers of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko and they pursued a deal for him last summer.

Sesko opted to stay put at Leipzig, as he believed it was better for his development, and he signed a new contract.

The 21-year-old is still expected to leave Leipzig this year, although most likely in the summer and not during the current transfer window.

Arsenal are light in attack and they are going into Saturday’s game against Aston Villa with just four fit forwards.

“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.”