Mikel Arteta has revealed that Arsenal is “on alert” to make moves in the January transfer window due to ongoing injury challenges affecting his squad.
As the Gunners prepare for their match against Aston Villa on Saturday, they are facing uncertainty over the fitness of Declan Rice and Cristhian Mosquera, both of whom have recently encountered setbacks.
Arsenal has already been missing several key players this season, including Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Viktor Gyökeres, Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Magalhães, and Noni Madueke, but they still hold a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League.
After investing over £250 million ($333.5m) on eight new signings, Arteta hinted that further additions could be made if the opportunity arises.
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According to sources, Arsenal is considering Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza among potential targets.
“We must always be prepared,” Arteta stated. “If there’s an opportunity to strengthen the squad or safeguard it, depending on the circumstances, we should be open to it. We need to stay alert to potential risks regarding the squad and be ready to act if necessary.”
Both Rice and Mosquera exited during Wednesday’s 2-0 victory over Brentford, and Arteta remarked that he would not be able to confirm their availability for the Villa Park match until after Friday’s training session. On Mosquera’s condition, he indicated, “That’s the one that is more complicated. We have another test today to evaluate their status.”
Arteta reiterated his earlier comments regarding William Saliba and Leandro Trossard, suggesting that they should be fit in a “matter of days.”