3 players Arsenal should sign to challenge for the title next season

The Gunnars need to strengthen their squad if they are to challenge for silverware next term
The Gunnars need to strengthen their squad if they are to challenge for silverware next term

Arsenal have shown some improvements from last season since Unai Emery took charge. The Gunners are now not afraid of top teams and could salvage a significant amount of points from the big boys such as Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur.

However, consistency is still a serious issue for the North London outfit. They could win with a convincing result against unstoppable United while losing an embarrassing 3 goals to Ligue 1 mid-table side Rennes in the previous match.

Despite these problems, Arsenal could always improve their squad by digging deep into the next transfer window. With a few more high-profile additions, the Gunners could go from top-4 seekers to title contenders next season.

Here are 3 names that the North Londoners should consider signing when the transfer window opens in the summer:


#3 Nicolas Pepe

The Ivorian attacker has been a huge revelation in the French League this season
The Ivorian attacker has been a huge revelation in the French League this season

Nicolas Pepe has been a revelation in Ligue 1 since his breakthrough season at Lille. The Ivorian winger has been very productive this term, scoring 18 goals and providing 8 assists for Lille in 30 appearances across all competitions. Aside from defense, the flanks have also been an issue for Arsenal recently and the young winger would bring the spark that is needed in that department.

Denis Suarez has failed to gain a foothold at the club while Alex Iwobi has also struggled to find consistency. Hence, Pepe would instantly slot to Arsenal's starting lineup with his current level of productivity. The Gunners, however, would need to dig deep into their pocket to prise the starlet away from the Ligue 1 as the French outfit would demand a hefty fee to let go of their priced asset.


Also See : Durand Cup, Durand Cup Schedule, Calcutta Football League

#2 Kostas Manolas

Manolas would add defensive strength to the squad
Manolas would add defensive strength to the squad

AS Roma have been on a downward spiral this season. Despite reaching the club's historic- semifinal run in the previous edition of the Champions League, the Italian giants got knocked out by Porto in this season's round of 16 ties and could also be out of Serie A's top 4. This situation could boost Arsenal in their pursuit of Kostas Manolas.

Manolas has been regarded as one of Europe's best defenders in recent years and, he would be the definite answer to Arsenal's struggling defense. Laurent Koscielny has already hit past his 30 while Shkodran Mustafi struggles to provide decent protection for the team.

The Greek defender is a fast, robust and all-around defender who could stop the opposition from creating dangerous counter-attacks. Arsenal is an offensive-minded club that loves to dominate their opponent; hence the 27 years old would fit seamlessly into the system.

#1 James Rodriguez

James Rodriguez would be a good upgrade on Mesut Ozil
James Rodriguez would be a good upgrade on Mesut Ozil

Arsenal are now in dire need of a quality offensive-type midfielder who could bring some creativity after the confirmed departure of Aaron Ramsey next season. Mesut Ozil has not been able to justify his massive £350,000 a week wage so far, contributing just a single goal and an assist in his last 10 matches.

James Rodriguez has been one of the big names that the Gunners are looking for to fill their midfield. The Colombian is a highly reliable playmaker who has a plethora of experience in Europe's most prominent clubs such as Bayern Munich and Real Madrid.

He is known for his passing technique and exceptional prowess to create key passes for his team. He could be deployed anywhere in the midfield and would serve as an instant upgrade to Ozil. However, Real Madrid might want him back following their recent disastrous midfield display.

Quick Links

Edited by Jidonu Mauyon