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David Ornstein reveals five positions Arsenal will strengthen this summer

Arsenal could strengthen five positions during the summer transfer window, according to The Athletic journalist David Ornstein.

The Gunners have had a fantastic campaign thus far. They are currently top of the Premier League on goal difference to Liverpool.

Meanwhile, they have progressed to the last eight of the Champions League after a long wait of 14 years.

Despite the positives, the club are expected to go on another spending spree and there could be at least five signings this summer.

In a Q&A session, Ornstein revealed that a striker is the top priority for the north London giants.

The reputed journalist added that the Premier League leaders have a desire to land a back-up for Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli for next season.

The Gunners are also looking into a midfield signing while there are plans to pursue a back-up left-back and a deputy goalkeeper if Aaron Ramsdale leaves.

He said: “On transfer priorities, my understanding is that will be a striker and I touched on some of the potential names previously.”

“Then there is desire to add back-up for Saka/Martinelli, a No.8 or No.6 depending on other movements in that area, possibly a left-back and a back-up goalkeeper if Ramsdale leaves.”

Arsenal spent £200 million on new signings last summer. They brought in Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and David Raya on an initial loan deal.

Rice, Havertz and Raya have had significant roles to play in the Gunners’ success. Raya recently saved two penalties in the shoot-out win over Porto in Europe.

Timber has yet to make his mark after his serious knee injury on debut, but the Dutchman showed in pre-season that he could be a fantastic acquisition.

Hence, we won’t be surprised if the hierarchy back the manager with another spending spree.

A marquee striker should be the top priority, but Mikel Arteta may want more quality on the right wing with the over-reliance on Saka for some time.

A new defensive midfielder could be targeted with the uncertain futures of Thomas Partey and Jorginho. Both could be heading for the exit door soon.

We don’t believe the club need a new left-back, considering the form of Jakub Kiwior who was brilliant during the injury absence of Oleksandr Zinchenko.

The Gunners also have Takehiro Tomiyasu and Timber, who can operate from the defensive position.

Ramsdale’s potential exit could pave the way for a new back-up goalkeeper. Arsenal are already showing interest in Las Palmas shot-stopper Alvaro Valles.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

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