Arsenal Considering January Sales of Key First-Team Stars
Arsenal are reportedly preparing to sell three first-team players during the January transfer window to raise funds for reinforcements in Mikel Arteta's squad. According to Mick Brown, a former scout for Manchester United and Tottenham, Gabriel Jesus, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Kieran Tierney are the players the Gunners are willing to part with, as revealed in an exclusive interview with Football Insider.
Raising Funds for Squad Improvements
The Gunners’ decision to entertain offers for these players reflects a strategic move to reduce their wage bill and generate funds to strengthen positions Arteta views as problematic. Brown explained:
"Sometimes the way it works is you’ve got to let some fringe players leave, raise a bit of money from them, and then refresh the squad with new backup options. Especially if you don’t think they’re good enough to play a role anymore, or if you’ve got better options in their positions."
Gabriel Jesus: A Surprising Potential Exit
The decision to consider selling Gabriel Jesus comes as a surprise, given the Brazilian forward's importance to Arsenal’s attack since his arrival from Manchester City. However, at 27, and amid reported interest in the striker, Arsenal may see this as an opportunity to cash in while reinvesting in younger or more versatile talents.
Brown revealed:
"When it comes to sales, you have to look at who your assets are. Gabriel Jesus is a player attracting interest, but Arsenal have better options in their plans for the future."
Oleksandr Zinchenko: A Role Diminished
Oleksandr Zinchenko, another former Manchester City player, has seen his importance fade since joining Arsenal in 2022. The Ukrainian full-back has struggled with form and fitness, and the arrival of Riccardo Calafiori has reduced his chances of regaining a significant role.
The club reportedly views Zinchenko as an asset they can part with, given the options they now have in his position.
Kieran Tierney: A Peripheral Figure
Kieran Tierney, despite his quality, has fallen out of favor under Arteta. The Scottish defender hasn’t featured for Arsenal this season and spent the latter part of last year on loan at Real Sociedad. At 27, Tierney’s potential departure seems inevitable as the Gunners look to refresh their defensive ranks.
Strategic Planning for the January Window
Arsenal’s reported strategy involves not only trimming the squad of players who no longer fit Arteta's plans but also ensuring they can reinvest to address squad depth issues. Brown emphasized the importance of these sales:
"If they feel they need to raise money, they’ve got these players who they’re far more likely to turn to. That’ll take a big chunk off the wage bill and help them to reinvest in strengthening their squad."
Arsenal’s Response to Other Transfer Developments
While the focus remains on outgoing transfers, Arsenal are also managing external interest in key players like William Saliba. However, Brown made it clear that players like Saliba are far from being considered for sale, as they form the backbone of Arteta’s future plans.
The Gunners' decision to cash in on fringe players could pave the way for fresh additions and maintain a competitive edge as they aim to build on their recent resurgence in both domestic and European competitions. Whether or not these sales materialize, Arsenal’s January dealings will be closely watched by fans and rivals alike.
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