Title: Declan Rice’s Impending Transfer to Arsenal Takes Arteta’s Spending Close to £600m
Introduction
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been overseeing significant changes at the club since taking charge in December 2019. One of the major transformations has been a turnover in players, with Arteta keen on building his own squad of young and hungry stars. As the Gunners close in on the signing of Declan Rice, their spending this summer is set to surpass £200m, taking Arteta’s total transfer expenditure close to £600m. This article explores the impact of Arteta’s spending spree and the expectations it raises for Arsenal.
Revamping the Squad
Under Arteta’s guidance, Arsenal has bid farewell to underperforming players on high wages, including Mesut Ozil, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Shkodran Mustafi, and Alexandre Lacazette. In their place, the manager has brought in promising talents such as Gabriel Jesus, Martin Odegaard, and Benjamin White. These changes have not only rejuvenated the squad but also generated approximately £70m from player sales.
Record-Breaking Transfers
Arteta’s ambition to strengthen the team has led to some record-breaking transfers. Kai Havertz was signed from Chelsea for a staggering £65m, marking a significant investment under Arteta’s reign. Additionally, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice are reportedly on their way to Arsenal, with fees of £40m and £105m respectively. If these transfers materialize, Arteta’s spending during his tenure will approach the £600m mark.
Chasing Premier League Glory
Arsenal had a promising run in the Premier League last season, leading the race for much of the campaign. However, a late stumble saw them surrender the top spot to Manchester City, who clinched their third successive Premier League title. With the added challenge of Champions League football, Arteta recognizes the need to bolster his squad to compete at the highest level. The significant investment in players reflects the club’s determination to end their long wait for Premier League success, which will mark 20 years since their legendary ‘Invincibles’ campaign.
Future Transfers and Squad Reinforcements
While the signings of Havertz, Rice, and Timber are on the horizon, Arsenal’s transfer plans extend beyond these acquisitions. The club has set its sights on Southampton star Romeo Lavia and Bayer Leverkusen ace Jeremie Frimpong. With Granit Xhaka’s departure to Leverkusen and rumors of Thomas Partey potentially leaving for Saudi Arabia, Arteta is keen to strengthen the midfield further. Moises Caicedo was a target in January, but Chelsea is now making progress in securing his services. As a result, Lavia emerges as a potential midfield addition, given his impressive performances despite Southampton’s relegation. Liverpool and Manchester United have also shown interest in the 18-year-old talent.
Conclusion
Mikel Arteta’s tenure at Arsenal has witnessed a significant overhaul of the squad, with a focus on bringing in young and hungry players. The impending transfer of Declan Rice will take Arteta’s spending at the club close to £600m, reflecting the club’s ambition to reclaim Premier League glory. With a revamped squad and record-breaking transfers, Arsenal aims to end their two-decade wait for league success. As the Gunners continue to target additional reinforcements, the expectations around the Emirates Stadium are higher than ever.