Arsenal prepare summer transfer overhaul centred on new contract for Mikel Arteta: report
Deepa Krishnaswamy May 22, 2026 11:11 AM

Fresh off being crowned Premier League champions, Arsenal are already setting their sights beyond their upcoming Champions League final.

The Gunners have a clear vision for their summer transfer strategy as they close out what has been a highly successful campaign.

On Sunday, Arsenal will lift the Premier League trophy after sealing the title earlier this week by defeating Burnley, a day before Manchester City were held to a draw by Bournemouth.

That result ensured a four-point lead for Arsenal with just one league fixture remaining. However, their season is not yet complete, with the Champions League final against PSG scheduled for the following Saturday.

According to The Mirror, Arsenal’s impressive progress this season has encouraged the club to plan an active summer transfer window aimed at strengthening their squad and securing manager Mikel Arteta’s long-term future.

Arteta’s current contract is due to expire next summer, but reports suggest that Arsenal are eager to offer him a two-year extension, which would also include a salary increase.

In terms of recruitment, Arsenal are believed to be focusing on bolstering their central midfield, left wing, and adding a versatile forward capable of playing across the attacking line.

Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez is said to be a major target for Arsenal, two years after his exit from Manchester City.

The Argentine international netted 36 goals in 103 appearances across all competitions for City over two seasons before joining Atletico in a €95 million transfer.

Since moving to Spain, Alvarez has scored 49 goals and provided 17 assists in 106 appearances, notably finding the net against Arsenal in their recent Champions League semi-final clash.

Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali has also been mentioned as a player of interest for the North London club.

The Italian joined Newcastle in the summer of 2023 and still has two years left on his current contract, which could make this an ideal opportunity for the Magpies to consider a sale.

West Ham United's Mateus Fernandes and Porto’s Victor Froholdt have been listed as possible alternatives should Arsenal not secure Tonali.

However, it is reported that Arsenal will need to offload players this summer to balance their finances, with Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Ethan Nwaneri among those who could be allowed to leave.

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