Arsenal are preparing to strengthen their squad after winning the Premier League title. Mikel Arteta's side are champions and aim to widen the gap to their rivals. The Gunners recruit from a position of strength, having come within two wins of also securing the Carabao Cup and Champions League. Arteta relied on a balanced squad but recognises areas needing improvement.
Summer Transfer Window Opens
Arsenal can intensify recruitment as the summer transfer window officially opens on Monday. Several players have been linked with moves to the Emirates Stadium. West Ham United midfielder Mateus Fernandes is reportedly a midfield target for the Gunners. The 21-year-old has been linked with Arsenal following the Hammers' relegation from the Premier League.
Elsewhere, Morocco midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has been the subject of speculation after an impressive World Cup performance against Brazil. Mirror Football examines the biggest stories surrounding Arsenal.
Fresh Mateus Fernandes Transfer Stance
Mateus Fernandes is valued at £80 million after attracting interest from Arsenal and Manchester United. Despite West Ham's relegation, shareholder Daniel Kretinsky insists the club does not need to sell its best players. "We have a very credible strategy," Kretinsky told The Times. "We don't need to sell the players for financial reasons. We are doing this to make sure we are promoted back to the Premier League immediately. That is our only goal."
"Key players are waiting for us. They want to see there is a real chance of keeping the squad together. What matters is funding, strategy and consistency. We have spoken to all of them. They need to see that our project is real and serious. Promotion is our only goal."
Fernandes made 36 league appearances, scoring three goals and assisting four, but could not prevent West Ham's relegation. The Portuguese international joined the Hammers from Southampton for an initial £38 million last summer.
World Cup Star Set for Talks
Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi has been linked with Arsenal after his performance in Morocco's 1-1 draw with Brazil. The Gunners were previously linked with the teenager ahead of the winter transfer window. Sky Sports reports that Arsenal have been actively working on a move for the 18-year-old and have maintained contact with the player's entourage since early 2025. Further talks are scheduled after the World Cup.
Lille are reported to have set a £60 million asking price for Bouaddi, who has already made 96 appearances for the club. The midfielder is said to be interested in joining Arsenal, but faces competition from Paris Saint-Germain for his signature.
