David Ornstein has suggested that Arsenal could be set to make up to five signings in the summer transfer window.
BBC Sport journalist Ornstein, who is popularly viewed by Arsenal fans as the best, and most reliable source of transfer rumors, was speaking to Sky Sports about the club’s plans for the summer. He pointed out how several players need to either replaced or covered, and that he does believe Arsenal are set for a ‘heavy period of investment’.
“I think they’re looking, well they’re definitely looking for a box-to-box midfielder to replace Aaron Ramsey, who’s going to Juventus,” Ornstein said, speaking to Sky Sports.
“They’re still in the hunt for a winger, which is why today again links have come out with Yannick Carrasco. They may be looking for a full-back to cover Hector Bellerin with his injury, and of course Stephan Lichtsteiner was only signed on a one-year contract.
“So there’s going to be a heavy period of recruitment ahead potentially at Arsenal. But until they get that technical director in place, many of those rumours [won’t happen].”
Ornstein is obviously spot on about the club’s need for recruitment. However, what remains to be seen is whether or not Stan Kroenke will be willing to contribute to the rebuilding process. So far, the club’s owner has not even put in a single penny into the club. They are entirely self sufficient, which seems like a remarkable feat on the outside but it is massively damaging the club.
With the likes of the two Manchester clubs, Chelsea and Liverpool all spending big in order to compete with each other for the title, Arsenal will continue to struggle if they don’t spend heavily.
January was a disaster and exposed to the public just how low on funds the club are. Unai Emery wanted to bring in players but was only able to afford a move for Denis Suarez, who is yet to start a game all season, first with Barcelona and now with Arsenal.
In the upcoming transfer window, rumor has it that Emery will once again be handed a £45 million transfer kitty which is simply not enough. That sum could also be affected depending on whether or not the club qualify for the Champions League, which is still not guaranteed.
Arsenal need to spend big on reinforcements and Kroenke needs to help out, or it might be a long time yet before the club can mount a serious title challenge.
