Three signings Arsenal could make in January to save their season

Bubemi
Who would you like to see Arsenal sign?
Who would you like to see Arsenal sign?

It’s fair to say that Arsenal’s season hasn’t gone to plan. The Gunners sit eight points behind the top four places, with an incredibly difficult Christmas fixture list coming up. The fans are uneasy and Unai Emery’s tenure is under severe scrutiny. There are cries of #EmeryOut, so much so that the board had to release a statement in defence of the Spaniard.

For Arsenal, there are two ways to turn this situation around. One, Emery completely rethinks his philosophy, or two, which is more likely, the board invests more funds into the team. Because after close to three months, it’s clear there are several weaknesses in the squad, the same ones that were prevalent at the start of the season.

Here are three signings Arsenal could make in January that could save their season.


#3 Nathan Ake

AFC Bournemouth v Manchester United - Premier League
AFC Bournemouth v Manchester United - Premier League

It may not have worked out at Chelsea for the Dutchman but since making his move to Bournemouth permanent, he’s excelled. The 24-year-old has been a cornerstone of Eddie Howe’s establishing of Bournemouth as a top-half team. Quietly but surely, Nathan Ake has been one of the most consistent performers in the entire league. Ake’s astute positioning and ability to mark tightly would make him a stupendous upgrade on what Arsenal currently have.

With William Saliba set to arrive next summer, Ake would be the perfect long-term partner for the Frenchman. Saliba would need a calming presence alongside him to settle into life in the Premier League. Also, this could develop into a formidable and long-term partnership due to the young age of the former Chelsea defender. In today’s market, any fee under £40million would be a steal for the youngster as his talent would demand much more in other markets across the globe.

Unai Emery.
Unai Emery.

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#2 Emre Can

Emre Can has only played 151 minutes of football for Juventus this season
Emre Can has only played 151 minutes of football for Juventus this season

When Emre Can made his intentions clear about leaving Liverpool, most of the footballing world looked at him in confusion. Nobody could understand why he would want to leave a team so clearly on an upward trend. Instead, he went to Juventus while the Reds won the coveted Champions League that he apparently wanted. This season, things have turned from bad to worse for the 26-year-old with Maurizio Sarri completely ostracizing him from the team. Can has only made four appearances this season, far too little for a player of his stature and quality.

The German’s work rate and ball retention are qualities in high demand at the Emirates. Since Arsenal made the shocking decision not to renew the contract of Aaron Ramsey, there’s been a gaping hole in the middle of Arsenal’s midfield. They now lack drive, ball retention and quicker transition through the middle. Can to Arsenal looks like a partnership made in heaven.

#1 Daniele Rugani

Could Rugani be the answer to all of Arsenal's defensive problems?
Could Rugani be the answer to all of Arsenal's defensive problems?

Daniele Rugani is basically the forgotten man at Juventus. He is unfortunate to be at the club at the same time as Giorgio Chiellini, Matthijs De Ligt and Leonardo Bonucci. He literally has three world-class centre backs ahead of him in the pecking order, but that does not belittle his quality. On his day, he’s still one of the most solid defenders in Europe.

In the summer, reports suggest the Italian was close to making a switch to the Emirates. However, the Gunners opted to buy the more experienced David Luiz at a much more convenient price. This January, Arsenal need Rugani more than ever, while the 25-year-old needs playing time more than ever too. The 24-year-old is confident on the ball, has great positioning and is a tough tackler - a perfect match for the Premier League.

Can one of Sarri's wards make the switch to the Emirates?
Can one of Sarri's wards make the switch to the Emirates?

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Edited by S Chowdhury