Five Players Arsenal Could Still Sign as Arteta Targets Another Level After Title Triumph
Arsenal's summer transfer window could be set for a dramatic finish as manager Mikel Arteta continues his search for elite reinforcements ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
After guiding the Gunners to the Premier League title, Arteta made it clear following the Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in May that he wanted his squad to reach "another level."
Although Arsenal have already strengthened by making Piero Hincapie's move permanent, signing goalkeeper Illan Meslier and completing a deal for winger Christos Tzolis, the North London club remains linked with several high-profile names.
Here are five players who could still arrive at the Emirates Stadium before the transfer window closes.
Bruno Guimaraes
Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes remains one of Arsenal's priority midfield targets. Reports suggest the Brazilian has expressed his desire to leave St. James' Park, with Arsenal believed to be his preferred destination. However, Newcastle are expected to demand a substantial transfer fee for one of their most influential players.
Vinicius Junior
Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior is another ambitious target for the Gunners. The Brazilian's contract situation has attracted attention, with negotiations over a new deal reportedly progressing slowly. Despite Real Madrid's reluctance to sell, Arsenal are monitoring developments closely and could test the Spanish club's resolve if an opportunity arises.
Bradley Barcola
Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola has also emerged as a potential option as Arteta looks to add more pace and creativity to his attack. The French winger has impressed in Ligue 1 and is regarded as one of Europe's brightest young forwards. His contract situation has reportedly placed him on Arsenal's radar.
Ezri Konsa
Arsenal are also believed to admire Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa. The England international would add experience, versatility and defensive stability to Arteta's squad. However, Villa's reported valuation of at least £50 million is considered significantly higher than Arsenal's current assessment of the player.
John Stones
Former Manchester City defender John Stones is available as a free agent after leaving the Premier League champions. The experienced England international impressed during the World Cup and remains an attractive option for clubs seeking leadership and quality without paying a transfer fee.
While no deals have been agreed for any of the five players, Arsenal are expected to remain active as they aim to build a squad capable of defending their Premier League crown and mounting another serious challenge for the UEFA Champions League.
Opinion: Arsenal Must Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Winning the Premier League has raised expectations at Arsenal, but staying at the top is often more difficult than getting there. Arteta's ambition to take his team "to another level" means the club must make smart decisions rather than simply pursuing big names.
Bruno Guimaraes would strengthen the midfield with leadership and technical quality, while Vinicius Junior could transform Arsenal's attack if a deal ever became financially possible. Bradley Barcola offers youth and long-term potential, whereas Ezri Konsa and John Stones would add valuable experience and defensive depth.
The reality, however, is that signing all five players is highly unlikely. Arsenal's success this summer will depend on identifying the areas that need strengthening most and investing wisely. If the club can add two or three players who genuinely improve the starting XI, the Gunners will be well-positioned to defend their domestic crown and compete for European glory once again.
