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Arteta confirms Arsenal remain active in transfer market
13th August, 2026 10:18 AM
Mikel Arteta has confirmed that Arsenal are still pursuing further additions before the transfer window closes, although the manager acknowledges that finding players capable of significantly improving the squad is proving difficult.
The Premier League champions have already strengthened their midfield with the £75 million (Ksh13.05 billion) arrival of Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle United. The Brazil international made his Arsenal debut during Wednesday night’s friendly against Como at the Emirates Stadium.
Transfer business
Despite the midfielder’s arrival, Arteta insists Arsenal have not finished their recruitment business.
“There is more that we want to do because every time we have an opportunity to improve the squad and bring more quality and depth to the squad, we need to do that”
The Gunners have endured disappointment in their pursuit of several high-profile targets this summer. Vinicius Junior opted to extend his stay at Real Madrid, while Morgan Rogers moved from Aston Villa to Chelsea.
Arteta says Arsenal remain committed to strengthening but warned that transfers depend on several factors beyond the club’s control.
“We are actively trying to do so. The thing in the market is that it doesn’t just depend on you. We are very clear on that.
“But the approach, the will and the desire of the club, that’s unquestionable. We want to try to do that. But we cannot promise that we’re going to do it because it doesn’t only depend on us.”
Arsenal have been linked with Atletico Madrid forward Julian Alvarez and Paris Saint-Germain attacker Bradley Barcola as they continue their search for another major attacking addition.
Arteta believes, however, that there are not many players currently available who would make a substantial difference to his squad.
“I think for the margins to improve, there are very few players in the market that are available to do that and bring that to the club,”
He added:
“But again, we are actively looking to improve that and we’re going to try.”
Wage questions
The Arsenal manager was also asked whether bringing in another elite-level player could have an impact on the club’s existing wage structure.
Arteta declined to get involved in that aspect of the club’s recruitment strategy, instead pointing towards sporting director Andrea Berta and the board.
“I’ll leave that question to [sporting director] Andrea [Berta] and the board.
“My job is more to focus on getting the best out of the players that we have, to create that connection between them and to make every player feel important, regardless of the wages.”
Guimaraes makes immediate impression
Arteta was pleased with Guimaraes’ first appearance in Arsenal colours, with the midfielder coming on at half-time against Como after only three training sessions with his new teammates.
The Brazil international showed his eagerness to get involved and could potentially be considered for Sunday’s Community Shield clash with Manchester City.
“Let’s see,” said Arteta. “He only had three training sessions, but he looked good. He was really pushing to play some minutes.
“I think he wanted to get his debut and the feeling of playing in front of our fans immediately.
“And you sense immediately, I believe, a strong connection at play that is going to make us better.” He added.
