Arsenal will ride the wave of their Premier League success this season with another summer transfer spending spree, as Mikel Arteta aims to build a dynasty. The Gunners clinched their first league title in 22 years with a dramatic victory at Bournemouth, sparking celebrations across north London.
Record Fee for Kroupi
It is only fitting to sign the player who gifted Arsenal the title. Sentimental reasons aside, the 19-year-old Frenchman's goal for Bournemouth against Manchester City showcased his incredible composure and technique. Bournemouth recently stated they would not entertain offers of £85 million for their talisman, who has scored 13 goals in his debut season in England. However, even around £90 million for Kroupi — a record sum for an Arsenal forward — would be well worth it if the north Londoners manage to negotiate a fee with the Cherries. He would add versatility along the front line, capable of playing as an inside forward from the left like Leandro Trossard or as a lone striker, as well as a much-needed goal threat. Kroupi also has the added bonus of being adored in north London before even putting on an Arsenal shirt.
Splurge on Barcola
Quality over quantity should be the main objective for Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta. Last year, the Gunners spent a record sum of over £250 million on eight players. Their needs have now changed to requiring more elite players rather than raising the floor of the entire squad. One such player available on the market is Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola. Still just 23 years old, the Frenchman is world-class on counter-attacks and has more tools in his attacking arsenal than Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli. Barcola has grown frustrated at his lack of starts under Luis Enrique this term, given the Spaniard's preference for Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Desire Doue. Yet, he is needed at Arsenal, as seen by his heroics during last year's treble-winning season, where he racked up a whopping 44 goal contributions in 64 appearances. Barcola is expected to cost a similar amount to Kroupi, just over £85 million.
Sell Deadwood
It is understood that Arsenal have to sell players to spend heavily again this summer. Both Berta and predecessor Edu Gaspar have been underwhelming in past transfer windows when it comes to selling players for respectable sums. It is something the north Londoners still fall well behind their rivals in and an underrated part of transfer planning. Fortunately, there is no shortage of players set for the exit door this summer. Gabriel Jesus, Christian Norgaard, Fabio Vieira, Ethan Nwaneri, Martinelli, and Trossard could all be sold to make way for reinforcements. It is up to Berta to find suitors and negotiate deals that will help balance the books.
Shock Tonali Move
If, after signing Kroupi and Barcola, Arsenal still have money left in the account, Sandro Tonali of Newcastle would be a truly special acquisition. Until now, Arteta has been fortunate that Declan Rice has been ever-present. But he may not be injury-proof forever. When that time comes, Arsenal need to be prepared. Tonali's engine and duel-winning ability would make him both a seamless replacement for Rice and a potential midfield partner. The Italian, 26, was heavily linked with a late move to Arsenal in January. His agent appears to be keen for him to move on too, especially with Newcastle set to miss out on European football. Tonali is expected to cost upwards of £80 million. Pulling off this signing, and the other two, will certainly not be easy. But such ambition is what separates title-winning teams from Premier League dynasties.
