“We have managed the squad in the best possible” - Mikel Arteta speaks up on Arsenal’s transfer plan ahead of January window

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has hinted that January additions to his roster could be possible if the right player becomes available. The Gunners strengthened their squad over the summer, signing Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino while Raheem Sterling and Neto arrived on loan.

The north London side, however, are third in the Premier League table, six points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand. The situation has prompted talks of reinforcements in January.

However, speaking to the press (via Tribal Football), the Arsenal manager insisted that he trusts his squad.

"I fully trust the squad and our players and the amount of situations and things we generate in the match, how little we concede. I fully trust my players," said Arteta.

When pressed on the matter, Arteta added that the Gunners' winter activity could depend on a lot of factors.

"It will depend on what player it is, the value of that player, if there are any other movements in the squad or not, so it’s very difficult to answer," said Arteta

He continued:

"We have managed the squad in the best possible way to make sure everybody is fit and available, feels part of it and is ready when the team needs them. If we have to make changes, I’m sure that the boys who come in will have that and others will have to play as well because of the numbers."

Arsenal will next be in action against Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday, December 18.

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Are Arsenal eyeing a Barcelona forward?

Raphinha has admirers at the Emirates

Arsenal have retained their interest in Barcelona's Raphinha, according to The Boot Room. The Gunners are long-term admirers of the 28-year-old and reportedly enquired about his availability in the summer.

While a move failed to materialize, the north London side have stayed in touch with the player's camp via intermediaries. Raphinha has been in superb form for the Catalans this season, registering 17 goals and 10 assists from 24 games.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have struggled for consistency and could do with more firepower in the squad. Gabriel Martinelli has been subdued while Leandro Trossard remains linked with an exit from the Emirates Stadium.

Raphinha's proposed arrival could take Arteta's team to a whole new level. The Brazilian is proven in the Premier League following a stint with Leeds United and could hit the ground running with a return. However, he remains firmly in Barcelona's plans at the moment, so prising him away won't be easy.