3 players Arsenal must look to sign in the January transfer window

#2 Midfield: Thomas Partey

Arsenal's midfielders are as guilty as their defenders when it comes to conceding goals this season. The vast uninterrupted space in the Gunners midfield has continually left the back-line without any cover, making it incredibly easy for opponents to sneak into the area.

Granit Xhaka's performances have been the subject of intense scrutiny owing to his lack of pace and mobility in the middle of the park. The 27-year-old was heavily linked with a January move to Hertha Berlin a few days ago but Arteta has insisted that he will stay on at north London.

Whether or not the Swiss international leaves this winter, Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey would be an ideal candidate either as his replacement or as a partner to Lucas Torreira, who is currently thriving in his new role as the deepest lying midfielder under Arteta.

Partey was linked with a move to Arsenal last summer and is understood to have a £43.5 million (€50m) release clause in his contract with Los Rojiblancos. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the 26-year-old was incredibly keen on a move to the Emirates but his fee proved to be a little too expensive for the Gunners.

The Ghana international's stature and physicality could prove to be complementary to the dimunitive Torreira and would offer some balance and structure to an otherwise disproportionate midfield.

Arsenal would, however, have to make a quick move if they wish to secure Partey's services as the Madrid giants are believed to have alreaady begun talks to increase the value of his release clause.