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Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has set his sights on a significant summer transfer window as he looks to propel the club to the next level and end their prolonged wait for silverware.

Speaking just a day after Arsenal confirmed Andrea Berta as their new sporting director, Arteta emphasised the importance of squad reinforcements to compete at the highest level. Berta, who previously held a key role at Atletico Madrid, will oversee the club’s recruitment strategy.

Arsenal have faced criticism for their reluctance to sign a striker in recent transfer windows, a decision that has come under scrutiny following injuries to key forwards Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. Their absence has left the Gunners without a recognised striker, contributing to a 12-point gap behind Premier League leaders Liverpool. If their form does not improve, Arsenal could finish runners-up for a third consecutive season.

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Ahead of Arsenal’s clash with Fulham at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday, Arteta underlined the significance of the upcoming transfer window.

“It’s going to be a big summer, and we are very excited about it,” Mikel Arteta stated. “We want to increase the depth of the squad, improve quality, and add the skills necessary to take the next step. Every summer is important, and we have to make the most of this opportunity.”

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Berta, 53, will play a pivotal role in Arsenal’s summer strategy after emerging as the standout candidate in a thorough recruitment process. His experience in European football made the opportunity to join Arsenal and work in the Premier League an irresistible prospect.

One of Berta’s key tasks will be to strengthen Arsenal’s attack, an area that has been exposed due to injuries and lack of depth. The club has become heavily reliant on Havertz, who was enjoying his best goal-scoring season before his knee injury. Meanwhile, Jesus’ recurring fitness concerns and the decision to sell Eddie Nketiah without securing a replacement have left Arsenal short of attacking options.

With attacking reinforcements a priority, Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres have reportedly emerged as key targets. Arsenal cannot afford another unproductive transfer window if they are to mount a serious title challenge next season.

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