The start of the January transfer window could be a nervous time for Arsenal, with three of their players able to negotiate pre-contract agreements with rival clubs
The start of the January transfer window represents a potentially nervous time for Mikel Arteta.
The Spaniard’s Arsenal side have been unable to mount a title challenge this season, with Liverpool instead charging away. The opening of the window hands the Gunners the chance to reinforce their squad.
But it also signals the start of the period when players whose contracts expire in the summer can sign pre-contract agreements with overseas sides. Arsenal have three players who fit into that category.
If Arteta is to keep his squad together, he may have to fend off interest for several of his star men. Here, Mirror Football looks at the three players who can sign agreements with rival teams from Wednesday.
Thomas Partey
Leading the list is Thomas Partey, who has emerged as a key man for Arteta since his arrival from Atletico Madrid four years ago. The Ghana international has made 25 appearances in all competitions this season.
He has proven to be a versatile asset for the Gunners, featuring at both right-back and in central midfield. Clubs in Saudi Arabia and across Europe are monitoring his situation, with Arteta declining to comment on his situation.
He said in November: “We will have the right time to discuss about the situation. He is showing consistency at the highest level, again because his availability and the way that he feels physically is allowing him to do that, and I am very pleased with that.”
Jorginho
While not a regular starter, Jorginho has been a vital squad player for Arsenal since his arrival from Chelsea in January 2023. The Italian has made 14 appearances in all competitions this season.
At 33-years-old, he is unlikely to be able to secure a move to another elite team. And speaking last week, Jorginho made it clear that he is keen to extend his stay at the Emirates Stadium.
He told ESPN Brasil: “I’m happy. You can’t be unhappy at a club like this, with the people who work at the club, with the group, the atmosphere here at the training ground. I think it’s a marvellous working environment that anyone who comes here really enjoys.”
Kieran Tierney
While Partey and Jorginho’s futures are up in the air, Kieran Tierney is certain to leave. Arsenal have opted against activating the option to extend his contract by 12 months, with Tierney told he is free to find a new club.
It marks a disappointing downturn in fortunes for the Scot, who had been hailed as a ‘natural leader’ and tipped to one day captain Arsenal by Arteta himself in January 2021.
But Tierney has played just once this season for the Gunners, with that coming in the Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace. It has been clear for some time that the 27-year-old does not feature in Arteta’s plans.
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