Arsenal are hopeful of still being active in the final weeks of the summer transfer window. Having already brought in six players, the Gunners remain open to the idea of further moves, although there are requirements for that to happen.
Particular pressures come from the group’s size, with as many as 28 players on the books at present, eight more than can fit in a matchday squad. Then there are the always-present UEFA Financial Fair Play regulations the club want to work comfortably within.
Yet if there is a quick turnaround and the club do manage to give themselves some freedom, they could try and find a way to bring reinforcement in before the next fixture. Having opened their campaign with a 1-0 victory at Manchester United despite a below-par performance, there is real hope amid their title dreams.
After that tricky start, Mikel Arteta’s side’s season begins to open up. Leeds United are the next side to face the Gunners, and Arsenal have the benefit of playing the game in their own stadium.
These matches will be incredibly valuable for the club’s new signings to settle in. Viktor Gyokeres and Noni Madueke are particularly in focus and could make big strides toward gaining the notoriety Arteta hopes they’ll claim.
According to Premier League rules, new players must register by 12pm on the last working day before the game for them to feature in the next match. Arsenal take on Leeds on Saturday 23 August at 5:30pm UK time.
This means the Gunners will have to have any new players registered by midday on Friday this week in order for any of them to be involved. That gives the club just over two days to complete deals, otherwise they will have to wait for a trip to Anfield to make their first appearance.
