Arsenal endured one of their worst seasons in recent times as they failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League for the first time in two decades. The club face a very important transfer window as they look to close the gap on the top four next season.
The Gunners have already made their first signing. Alexandre Lacazette arrived for £53m from Lyon to become the club’s most expensive player. But he is just one piece of the puzzle and Arsenal need more reinforcements if they are to challenge for the league title next season. Here are three signings they should make in the summer.
Thomas Lemar
At least three Arsenal attackers could be on their way out of the club this summer. Alexis Sanchez, Olivier Giroud and Alex Oxlade Chamberlain are all being linked with moves away. And Arsene Wenger should look to splash the cash on the highly rated Thomas Lemar. The AS Monaco winger enjoyed a stellar 2016/17 season, scoring 14 goals and creating 17. The Frenchman can play on all three attacking midfield positions and could be the perfect replacement for Alexis Sanchez. It remains to be seen if Monaco are willing to part with the 21-year old. But Arsenal should go all out for Lemar as he has all the potential to be a world-class player.
Riyad Mahrez
Another player on Arsenal’s radar is Riyad Mahrez. While he is only considered as a backup option for Lemar at the moment, Arsene Wenger should look to sign both. Mahrez was a target for Arsenal last season but a move never materialized. Now the Algerian winger is looking for a step up from Leicester City. And Arsenal can provide him exactly that. With a grueling Europa League campaign coming up, Arsenal will need greater strength in depth. Signing the 26-year old will give Arsenal much needed options in attack even if Sanchez decides to leave. Mahrez showed that he is can perform on the big stage with his performances in the Champions League last season. And under Wenger he can be a real star.
Virgil van Dijk
Laurent Koscienly and Shkodran Mustafi struggled in defense for Arsenal last season. And while Rob Holding provided glimpses of his talents, Arsenal need another centre-back. They should look no further than Virgil van Dijk who is one of the most wanted players in the league. The Southampton man rose to prominence with his performances last season and could be a vital player for Arsene Wenger’s side. The Gunners lack leaders in their side and in the Dutch international they could have a player who can lead the side for years to come. The 25 year old is already proven in the Premier League and he will only get better in the next few years. Arsenal should not think twice before making a move for van Dijk.
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