Arsenal need to sign a midfielder in January to cover for Thomas Partey, according to ex-striker Paul Merson.
The Gunners are currently top of the Premier League after a stunning start to the season, but may need reinforcements in the winter window to help stay clear of their closest challengers.
With Gabriel Jesus injured, Arsenal’s main transfer focus appears to be in attack, with Mykhaylo Mudryk and Joao Felix linked – but Merson has claimed that Mikel Arteta also needs a central midfielder.
Partey has been sensational for Arsenal at the base of midfield, with their only loss this season coming when he was unavailable, and more cover may be needed given his poor injury record.
Speaking on Sky Sports News, Merson emphasised how important the Ghanaian is to the team and that a strong rotational option is needed.
He said: “I personally think they need another holding midfield player.
“I thought Thomas Partey has been absolutely outstanding this season. I think if he got injured, I think it would be a big worry for them.”
TIF thoughts on Arsenal’s midfield…
Partey’s record this term suggests he is almost irreplaceable for Arsenal, and it showed towards the end of last season as their form suffered when he was injured.
Mohamed Elneny and Albert Sambi Lokonga are his replacements within the squad, and whilst they are good players within their own rights, the fact they are hardly getting a look-in perhaps suggests there is a big drop-off in quality compared to Partey.
There have been links with Danilo of Palmeiras and it remains to be seen whether Arteta chooses to sign another midfielder, but if they are to stand any chance of winning the title, they will hope that Partey does not pick up another injury.