Mikel Arteta is reportedly planning to overhaul his squad at the end of this season in what should be his first summer transfer window at Arsenal. According to Football.London, the Spaniard will get rid of five first-team players to make way for fresh blood.
Of the five players, three are defenders, which isn’t all too surprising. Shkodran Mustafi, despite being one of several Gunners flop to enjoy a turnaround under Arteta and impress under the Spaniard’s guidance, is one of the five set to be sold this summer.
This is not the first time the German center-back has been linked with an Emirates Stadium exit. He was tipped to leave last summer but the north London giants were unable to find a suitor who would match their valuation.
Sokratis and Kolasinac are the two other defenders on this list, with the latter struggling with fitness. The Bosnian did exhibit promising displays upon Mikel’s arrival but injuries have kept him on the sidelines for the most part.
The other two names on the list are Mkhitaryan and Elneny. Both are away on loan at Roma and Besiktas respectively. Furthermore, if Aubameyang refuses to sign an extension then the Gabonese striker will also be sold, which would raise significant funds for Arteta to spend.
As for who will be brought in, several names have been mentioned. Umpamecano is a long-term target but Arsenal are aware that they would face an uphill battle to land him. Feyenoord’s Orkun Kokcu and Atletico’s Thomas Partey are also on the Gunners’ radar.
