Arsenal’s summer transfer strategy is taking shape, with reports suggesting that Andrea Berta wants to bring in not one, but two top-class midfielders to reinforce Mikel Arteta’s squad. According to journalist Eduardo Burgos, both Bruno Guimarães and Martín Zubimendi are on the club’s wishlist, with the ambition of adding significant strength in the middle of the park.
The pursuit of Zubimendi has hit a snag, as negotiations have stalled (CaughtOffside), but Arsenal remain interested. Meanwhile, a move for Guimarães could be more feasible if Newcastle fail to secure Champions League football, with a potential price tag of around £59 million. The idea of signing both players has gained credibility, as Ben Jacobs of GiveMeSport has reported that Guimarães is being seriously considered by Arsenal’s transfer team.
However, while the speculation around double midfield reinforcements continues, I find it hard to believe that Arsenal will dedicate such a large chunk of their transfer budget to this area of the squad. With Thomas Partey and Jorginho likely to depart, strengthening the midfield is necessary, but the real priority should be in attack. Arteta’s side have struggled to convert dominance into goals on too many occasions, and a world-class forward would be a far more decisive addition.
Arsenal need to be strategic in their spending, and while Guimarães or Zubimendi could be valuable signings, targeting both feels excessive. The midfield does need reinforcements, but not at the cost of neglecting the attacking line, which is where the club’s resources should be focused to mount a serious title challenge next season.