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Arsenal's six dream transfers before summer window closes with time running out

Arsenal could be set for a frantic end to the summer transfer window, with as many as six deals potentially on the cards for Mikel Arteta's side

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After a relatively quiet start to the summer transfer window, Arsenal are doing everything they can to finish with a flourish. The £75million capture of Bruno Guimaraes has understandably got supporters salivating, and while a blockbuster move for Vinicius Junior now appears dead in the water, there are still plenty of enticing options on the table.

Mikel Arteta is determined to strengthen his squad and plug even the smallest of gaps ahead of Arsenal's first Premier League title defence in more than two decades. The Gunners are therefore expected to be busy during the final few weeks of the window as they look to add the finishing touches to their squad.

With their Premier League rivals splashing the cash - more than £850million has already been spent by the other five 'Big Six' clubs - Arsenal have some catching up to do. With that in mind, here are six ideal signings the Gunners could still make before the transfer window slams shut on September 1.

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IN -Vinicius Jr. alternative

Arsenal will still want to bring in a new left winger following the collapsed pursuit of Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr. Recent reports have claimed the club have identified Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz as a target.

The 21-year-old Turkish international enjoyed an impressive 2025/26 campaign in Serie A, prompting the Gunners to make contact with the Italian giants regarding a transfer. However, Juventus have made it clear that Yildiz won't be sold cheaply, placing a valuation of around €100million (£86m) on his head.

Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and PSG's Bradley Barcola have already been linked earlier in the transfer window, with no obvious candidate for who the Gunners could ultimately bring in having yet emerged as a frontrunner.

IN - Ezri Konsa

Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa following William Saliba's latest injury setback. With Jurrien Timber also sidelined, Mikel Arteta is increasingly keen to bolster his defensive options and sees the versatile 28-year-old as an ideal addition.

The Guardian reported on Monday that the Gunners have already seen an offer for Konsa rejected, with their opening bid reportedly falling short of Villa's £60m valuation. However, Arsenal are said to be considering whether to return with an improved bid.

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IN - Julian Alvarez

Arsenal were also interested in signing Eli Junior Kroupi, although the Bournemouth striker's unfortunate pre-season foot injury may ultimately mean they also miss out on the 20-year-old Frenchman too.

Recent reports have now suggested Inter Milan forward Pio Esposito has emerged as a top attacking target for Arsenal as they look to add elite young firepower to their frontline. Gunners scouts are said to have closely monitored the 21-year-old Italian during pre-season, submitting overwhelmingly positive reports to the Emirates hierarchy.

Although Inter publicly maintain that the young striker is untouchable, they have reportedly set a £73m price tag on his services, according to The Sun. Arsenal are currently said to be leading the race for Esposito's signature, with the player open to a move to the Premier League before the transfer deadline.

OUT - Gabriel Jesus

Gabriel Jesus appears set to end his four-year spell in North London after entering the final 12 months of his contract at the Emirates Stadium. Having fallen down the pecking order behind Viktor Gyokeres and Kai Havertz due to persistent injuries, the 29-year-old has reportedly been given permission to seek a new club.

If Arsenal are to lose Jesus at some point in the next year, it will surely be better to bank a fee for him now rather than risk losing him for nothing in a year's time.

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OUT - Gabriel Martinelli

Gabriel Martinelli's long-term future at Arsenal is subject to growing speculation as European clubs monitor his situation. The arrival of winger Christos Tzolis has increased competition on the left flank, leaving Martinelli battling to secure a starting role and should the Gunners sign another winger, it could be the final nail in the coffin for the Brazilian.

Italian side Roma and Turkish heavyweights Galatasaray have both made formal enquiries regarding his availability. Arsenal are under no immediate pressure to sell and will only sanction a departure if they can secure a proven, marquee replacement.

Like Jesus, he only has one year left on his contract, although the club has the option of extending it by a further year. With interest in Martinelli growing, it now looks increasingly likely that he will be gone before the end of the month.

OUT - Ethan Nwaneri

Academy graduate Ethan Nwaneri is the subject of intense interest after returning from a loan spell in Ligue 1 with Marseille. The 19-year-old midfielder demonstrated his talent by scoring in the Emirates Cup against Borussia Dortmund, but after slipping out of the first-team picture, his future at the club remains uncertain.

Arsenal have reportedly placed a £50m valuation on Nwaneri, although they are understood to be open to a deal closer to £35m, provided certain conditions are met. A buy-back clause is thought to be one of those key demands, allowing the Gunners to retain a degree of control over the midfielder's future should he leave this summer while offering the player the opportunity to gain some valuable first-team experience.

Premier LeagueArsenalMikel ArtetaVinicius JuniorKenan YildizMarcus RashfordTransfer Rumorfootball