Arsenal's pursuit of the Premier League crown has been handed a significant mid-season boost, with key title rivals Manchester City plunged into a defensive injury crisis that could disrupt their own January transfer plans.
City's Defensive Dilemma Hands Gunners Advantage
The January transfer window is now open, and developments at the Etihad Stadium may have inadvertently strengthened Mikel Arteta's position at the Emirates. Manchester City are facing a severe shortage in central defence following a serious injury to key man Josko Gvardiol, which could rule him out for the remainder of the campaign.
This situation has reportedly forced Pep Guardiola's side into the market for a replacement, with England and Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi emerging as a prime target. According to the BBC, City are exploring a move for the Eagles captain this month.
Any successful move for Guehi by City would have strengthened their squad for the title run-in. However, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner has delivered a firm update, stating his desire to keep the player. "Of course we want to keep everyone," Glasner said bluntly when asked about Guehi's future. This followed a previous comment where he indicated, "I think Marc will stay until the end of the season."
With Gvardiol sidelined and first-choice partner Ruben Dias also picking up a knock, City's defensive resources are stretched. Guehi remaining at Selhurst Park is therefore viewed as a major positive for Arsenal's championship aspirations, potentially denying a direct rival a crucial reinforcement.
Arsenal's Own Transfer Radar Active
While monitoring their rivals' activity, Arsenal's own recruitment team remains busy. The Gunners continue to be linked with a move for AC Milan's versatile 20-year-old defender Davide Bartesaghi.
Reports from Italy, via Quotidiano Sport, claim that Arsenal are 'closely following' the young Italian, a process that has been ongoing for some time. However, they face significant competition, with Manchester City and Real Madrid also credited with interest.
In response, AC Milan are keen to secure Bartesaghi's long-term future. The Serie A giants are reportedly preparing to offer the academy graduate a new contract that would triple his salary, a clear attempt to ward off suitors. Although primarily a left wing-back, Bartesaghi has recently shown his adaptability by playing on the left side of a back three.
Despite Milan's desire to keep him, it is claimed the club would demand a fee of around €45 million (approximately £39 million) to sanction a sale during the current January window.
Title Race Context and Implications
This transfer news unfolds against the backdrop of a tense Premier League title race. Arsenal currently sit six points clear at the summit, an advantage extended after a dramatic weekend where Declan Rice's brace secured a 3-2 win over Bournemouth, and Chelsea snatched a late draw against Manchester City.
Arteta's squad now faces a pivotal midweek clash against Liverpool at the Emirates Stadium. The outcome of the January window, particularly whether rivals can address key weaknesses, could prove almost as decisive as results on the pitch.
For Arsenal, the failure of Manchester City to land a top defensive target like Marc Guehi represents a silent victory. It maintains the status quo in a title race where squad depth and avoiding injury crises are paramount. Meanwhile, their continued surveillance of talents like Davide Bartesaghi indicates a strategy focused on long-term development, even while challenging for immediate honours.
