As the January transfer window approaches, Premier League leaders Arsenal are meticulously planning their strategy to enhance an already formidable squad, while manager Mikel Arteta moves to retain key talents for the title run-in.
Gunners Eye Frankfurt Prodigy Bahoya
According to reports from Sky Germany, Arsenal are 'seriously considering' a swoop for Eintracht Frankfurt's 20-year-old attacking midfielder Jean-Matteo Bahoya. The French youth international, who has started half of Frankfurt's Bundesliga games this term, is highly regarded across Europe.
It is believed the German club, currently seventh in the Bundesliga, are aware of Arsenal's interest. While formal talks are yet to begin, Frankfurt reportedly value the promising youngster at around 70 million euros (£61.5 million). This valuation follows the club's sale of Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool for £69m last summer.
Bahoya turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad in the previous window, stating his desire to compete in the Champions League with Frankfurt. His potential arrival would signal Arsenal's intent to secure the best young talent for the future.
Arteta Firm on Squad Retention
Despite speculation, Mikel Arteta is set to block any January departure for midfielder Myles Lewis-Skelly. The 19-year-old England international enjoyed a breakthrough last season but has found minutes limited this campaign, failing to start a Premier League game.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano states there is 'no chance' of Lewis-Skelly leaving on loan, with Arteta expecting to rely on the teenager in the crucial months ahead. The same principle applies to defender Ben White, despite his reduced role, quashing rumours of a move to Chelsea.
This stance underscores Arteta's priority: not to disrupt a squad that has been the best in England and arguably Europe over the past four months, suffering just one defeat and establishing a five-point lead at the Premier League summit.
Planning for the Future Continues
Arsenal's long-term recruitment strategy remains active, with the club having already secured deals for Ecuadorian 16-year-old twins Edwin and Holger Quintero from Independiente Del Valle. The duo, likened to a young Neymar and a talented playmaker respectively, will join in the summer of 2027.
This follows the successful integration of young talents like Myles Lewis-Skelly, Ethan Nwaneri, and record-breaker Max Dowman into the first-team setup, demonstrating the club's commitment to nurturing the next generation.
With the January window opening in less than a month, Arsenal's activity will be a careful balance of opportunistic strengthening and maintaining the harmony of a squad firmly on course for a historic season.
