Arsenal’s transfer window has been a calculated blend of precision and ambition, with sporting director Andrea Berta orchestrating moves that have already transformed the Gunners’ squad for the 2025/26 season. Since the arrival of Sporting CP’s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres in a £63.5m deal at the end of July, the Emirates has been buzzing with anticipation for what’s next. With six signings already secured—including Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Cristhian Mosquera, and Kepa Arrizabalaga—Arsenal’s squad is taking shape, but Berta’s masterplan may not be complete just yet. Sources suggest a blockbuster move could be on the horizon, potentially redefining Arsenal’s attacking prowess before the September 1, 2025, transfer deadline.
A Quiet Fortnight, But the Storm Is Brewing
The past two weeks have been relatively quiet on the transfer front, with no new signings or major departures since Gyokeres donned the No.14 shirt. However, behind closed doors, Berta and manager Mikel Arteta are reportedly working tirelessly to address a key area of the squad: the left wing. Arsenal’s need for a dynamic, goal-scoring winger to complement their revamped attack has been a focal point of speculation, and Berta’s reputation for pulling off audacious deals—honed during his successful tenure at Atlético Madrid—has fans dreaming of a statement signing.
Eberechi Eze: The Dream That’s Fading?
Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, with reports indicating the 27-year-old England international had agreed personal terms and expressed a desire to join the Gunners. Eze, who played a pivotal role in Palace’s mid-table finish and FA Cup triumph last season, is seen as a versatile attacking midfielder capable of operating on the left or as a No.10, providing competition for Martin Ødegaard. His £68m release clause has been a sticking point, with Arsenal aiming to negotiate a lower fee, potentially involving a cash-plus-player deal with Reiss Nelson. However, recent developments suggest Tottenham Hotspur have surged ahead in the race for Eze, casting doubt on Arsenal’s chances of securing his signature.
Rodrygo and Rafael Leão: Ambitious Targets in Sight
With the Eze deal looking less likely, attention has turned to two elite wingers: Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and AC Milan’s Rafael Leão. Rodrygo, a two-time Champions League winner, has seen his role at Real Madrid diminish under new manager Xabi Alonso, with limited starts at the Club World Cup. Valued at around £69m, the 24-year-old Brazilian’s versatility to play on either wing makes him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system. Arsenal’s interest, which had cooled earlier, has reportedly been reignited, with Berta exploring the possibility of a loan move with an option to buy.
Meanwhile, Rafael Leão, the 26-year-old AC Milan star, remains a tantalizing prospect. Known for his explosive pace and flair, Leão has been a consistent performer in Serie A, and his potential availability has caught Arsenal’s eye. A move for Leão would likely require a significant financial outlay, but Berta’s expertise in structuring complex deals could make it feasible. Both players would bring a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack, offering the creativity and goal threat needed to challenge for major honors.
The No.10 Shirt: A Symbol of Ambition
One intriguing aspect of Arsenal’s next potential signing is the availability of the iconic No.10 shirt, vacant since Emile Smith Rowe’s departure last summer. Gyokeres opted for No.14 upon joining, leaving the prestigious number free for a new attacking star. Whether it’s Eze, Rodrygo, Leão, or another surprise target, the No.10 could serve as the perfect welcome gift, symbolizing the club’s ambition to return to the Premier League’s summit for the first time since 2004.
Berta’s Track Record: A Reason to Believe
Andrea Berta’s influence cannot be understated. His time at Atlético Madrid saw him mastermind transformative signings like Antoine Griezmann and Diego Costa, blending tactical nous with financial ingenuity. At Arsenal, he’s already delivered a balanced squad overhaul, with Zubimendi and Norgaard bolstering the midfield, Mosquera strengthening the defense, and Gyokeres addressing the need for a proven goalscorer. The addition of Madueke and Arrizabalaga further showcases his ability to identify value in the market. Now, with the transfer window entering its final two weeks, Berta’s next move could be his boldest yet—a signing that could eclipse even Gyokeres’ arrival in impact.
Youth and Depth: A Sustainable Future
Beyond the headline-grabbing targets, Arsenal’s transfer strategy under Berta emphasizes sustainability. The signings of 17-year-old Demiane Agustien from Derby County and Salford’s Will Wright reflect a commitment to nurturing young talent, while a long-term deal for Ethan Nwaneri signals confidence in the academy. These moves ensure Arsenal’s squad is not only equipped for the present but future-proofed for years to come.
Outgoings: Clearing the Path
To facilitate a major signing, Arsenal may need to sanction departures. Oleksandr Zinchenko, Reiss Nelson, and Fabio Vieira are among those linked with exits, with AC Milan showing interest in Zinchenko and Genoa targeting Nelson and Vieira on loan. These moves could provide the financial flexibility needed to pursue a high-profile winger, ensuring compliance with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
What’s Next for Arsenal?
As the September 1 deadline looms, Arsenal’s transfer activity is poised to heat up. Posts on X indicate ongoing interest in Eze and Rodrygo, with Berta’s negotiations likely to intensify in the coming days. Whether it’s Eze defying the odds to join, Rodrygo seizing a fresh start, or Leão emerging as the ultimate coup, Arsenal fans have every reason to stay glued to the news. Berta’s track record suggests he’s capable of pulling off a masterstroke, and the Gunners’ faithful will be hoping for a signing that sends a message to their rivals: Arsenal are back, and they mean business.