Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has downplayed speculation that the title-chasing north Londoners will be making any big moves in the January transfer window from when it opens on New Year's Day.

The Gunners currently sit third in the Premier League standings, six points behind Liverpool who have a game in hand on those immediately below them. In an attempt to bridge the gap between themselves and the league leaders, there has been speculation that Arteta may look to dip into the transfer market despite still searching for Edu's replacement after the sporting director stood down.

Sporting CP sensation Viktor Gyokeres has been linked with Arsenal - after matching the Gunners' search criteria this summer. Manchester United have ruled themselves out of signing players from Ruben Amorim's former team, this winter, which led some to believe that January could be the perfect moment for Arsenal to strike.

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However, during his pre-Everton press conference this afternoon, Arteta seemed adamant that a quiet month is expected. "I never expect January to be super busy but we have to wait and see where we are," the Spaniard said when asked about additions this winter.

"Some surprises can come. We are prepared for that.

"Some opportunities too. We have to see.

"Hopefully the availability of the squad will be better in a few weeks. We have to wait and see."

Currently, Arsenal have a number of absentees in their squad. Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu represent long-term injury worries for Arteta.

However, there's increased hope that fellow defenders Gabriel and Riccardo Calafiori could be back this weekend when the Toffees visit the Emirates Stadium. While Arsenal entertain Everton, their Merseyside rivals Liverpool will be hopeful of maintaining their advantage at the top of the tree when they host Fulham.