Arsenal could be set to replace one of the biggest names in their squad, with one of their more experienced midfielders asking for a transfer.
Mikel Arteta’s team bounced back to winning ways against Sevilla in the Champions League this week but are light in the centre of the park at current. Club captain Martin Odegaard is absent with a hip injury, Emile Smith Rowe has a knee problem and Thomas Partey is set to miss the rest of the year.
But that depth could be reduced even further come January.
Bukayo Saka of Arsenal celebrates scoring their teams second goal with Leandro Tossard of Arsenal during the UEFA Champions League match between Arsenal FC and Sevilla FC at Emirates Stadium on November 08, 2023 in London, England.
Arsenal beat Sevilla midweek
According to The Sun, Partey has told the Gunners that he wants to leave come January.
The Ghanaian is also set to miss a portion of the season with the Africa Cup of Nations coming up – but might have been moved on before then, with Arsenal already decided on a replacement.
90min claim that Real Sociedad superstar Martin Zubimendi is on the radar, with Bayern Munich also circling.
Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad during the La Liga match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Sociedad played at Civitas Metropolitano Stadium on October 8 in Madrid, Spain.
Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad is wanted by Arsenal
Partey’s injury is said to have prompted Arteta to shift his focus away from a more attacking signing this January, with Ivan Toney still high on his wishlist.
Martin Zubimendi is valued by Transfermarkt to be worth €40 million – but reportedly has a €52.m release clause.
