Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal stance as Moises Caicedo urges Brighton to sanction transfer

Mikel Arteta has confirmed Arsenal will try and strengthen their squad if a “reasonable” opportunity emerges between now and the end of the transfer window.

The Gunners saw a £60m offer for Brighton’s Moises Caicedo rejected on Friday, though the midfielder has since issued a public transfer request on social media.

Talks, however, will continue and an improved offer for the Ecuador international is a possibility. Still, Brighton are under little pressure to sell.

Everton’s Amadou Onana has emerged another target and the situation could be made more pressing following an injury to Thomas Partey.

The Ghanian international has been crucial to Arsenal’s title push this season but was forced off during the FA Cup fourth-round exit at Manchester City.

Arteta has confirmed Partey will have an MRI scan over the weekend after taking a knock to the ribs, leading to his substitution at half-time.

Speaking after the defeat at City said, Arteta said: “We have some necessities and if something else is available, the club is willing to try to do it when it is reasonable and hopefully it’s a player that can improve our squad.”