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With the 2020-21 Premier League season coming to an end, it's fair to say that Arsenal have been underwhelming at the very least.
With zero trophies and an eighth place finish, Arsenal no longer look like a top four side. Arsenal will be without any European competition next year for the first time in 25 years. This is a record that Mikel Arteta will shy away from commenting upon, and Arsenal will be hoping to improve their fortunes next time out. With the 2021-22 season only two months away, it is imperative that Arsenal have a good transfer window to rebuild, challenge top clubs and restore the club's past glory.
That said, let's take a look at five players Arsenal could sign in the summer transfer window.
#5. Ben White - Brighton & Hove Albion
Arsenal have recently been linked with Ben White. The 23-year-old defender from Brighton has impressed this season, earning a call-up to the England squad for Euro 2020. He was picked as a replacement for the injured Trent Alexander-Arnold.
Primarily a center back, White received praise for his calmness on the ball. Standing at six feet tall, he is also a commanding presence in the air. He possesses decent distribution skills that could just be what Arsenal lack.
Still only 23, it is easy to say that White lacks experience in the Premier League. The defender has only ever played one season in the English top flight. While he has been impressive, his inexperience could be a factor that prevents Arsenal from spending the money.
Considering his recent call-up and his relatively young age, White commands a market value of about £40 million. His price tag could be a concern, moreover, Arsenal seem to need a midfielder more urgently than a center back.
#4. Houssem Aouar - Lyon
Houssem Aouar has been linked with Arsenal for the past two seasons. It's a well known fact that Arteta and Arsenal are both big fans of the player, and would love to have him at the club.
Predominantly an attacking midfielder, Aouar is capable of playing anywhere in midfield. His creativity and his eye for a killer pass are the best attributes of his game. Aouar currently plays for the France U21 side.
Only 22, Aouar's asking price last year was around £44 million. This was supposedly on the higher side for Arsenal, who were unable to bid that amount in the past. This summer, the youngster will reportedly be available for £25 million.
The lack of attacking midfielders poses Arteta a serious problem. Both Real Madrid loanees Martin Odegaard and Dani Ceballos have returned after completing their respective loans. Things look scarce for Arsenal, with Emile Smith Rowe and Joe Willock as the only orthodox attacking midfielders. The signing of an attacking midfielder should be Arsenal's top priority.
#3. Andre Onana - Ajax
With Alex Runarsson's Arsenal future seemingly in doubt, Arsenal will need another goalkeeper in their ranks to compete with Bernd Leno.
The Cameroonian goalkeeper was in the headlines recently after receiving a one-year doping ban. His ban was reduced to nine months earlier this week, after an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
With the 25-year-old cleared to play from November, Arsenal seem to have their sights set on signing the player from Ajax. He is highly rated and has the quality to challenge Leno for the number one spot.
Considering that the shot stopper's market valuation was around £50 million only two years ago, Arsenal signing him for £7 million would still be a great deal. With the verdict on his future passed just this week, we can expect to see an outcome to this link very soon.
#2. Ruben Neves - Wolverhampton Wanderers
News headlines recently broke of Arsenal's surprise interest in Ruben Neves. The 24-year-old midfielder has spent the last four years with Wolves in the Premier League.
Armed with excellent long passes and the ability to shoot from distance, Neves possesses the required skills in his arsenal. He has often chipped in with long-range strikes and his intelligent passing.
With Granit Xhaka's future at Arsenal increasingly in the balance, fans suggest that Neves could be a direct replacement for the Swiss. With the Portuguese seemingly inclined to join Arsenal, it is understood he will partner Thomas Partey as part of a double pivot in midfield.
The financial aspect, however, could pose Arsenal with a problem. Neves is currently valued at £35 million, and the deal for Xhaka is reportedly in the range of £20 million. Signing Neves would depend completely on Arsenal's ability to offload players at a decent price.
#1. Yves Bissouma - Brighton & Hove Albion
Arsenal are considered firm favorites to sign Yves Bissouma this summer.
The 24-year-old midfielder has enjoyed a fantastic campaign with Brighton, with the club avoiding relegation and finishing 16th. Central midfield is an area that needs upholstering at Arsenal and Bissouma seems the perfect fit. With Bissouma reportedly expressing his desire to move, it is imperative that Arsenal complete the deal at the earliest.
The Malian has been with the Seagulls for three years now, impressing fans with his midfield prowess. Bissouma boasts one of the highest duel success rates of any Premier League player, and also makes a high output of tackles and interceptions.
Adept at breaking up opposition play, Bissouma is almost more than capable of transitioning defense into attack. With the Malian available for a reported £40 million, Arsenal will have to sell first before they can buy.
His skill set is exactly what Arsenal are missing at the moment and a move makes sense for all parties involved. It seems doubtless that the Gunners will look to offload several players this summer, post which they will look to rebuild.
