Mikel Arteta Reacts to Arsenal’s Quiet Transfer Window: “We Haven’t Achieved”

Gunners Fail to Make a Single Signing Despite Interest in Key Targets

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted feeling disappointed with the club’s lack of signings during the January transfer window, despite their openness to reinforcing key positions.

The Gunners had actively pursued several targets, including Vitor Reis, Sverre Nypan, and Ollie Watkins, but ultimately failed to finalize any deals before the deadline.

Arsenal’s Transfer Targets: What Went Wrong?

🔴 Vitor Reis – The Gunners scouted the Brazilian centre-back extensively but lost out to Manchester City, who moved quickly to secure his signature.

🔴 Sverre Nypan – Arsenal engaged in discussions with the Norwegian midfielder, but the player decided to delay his transfer decision until the summer.

🔴 Ollie Watkins – Arsenal made a £40m bid for the Aston Villa striker, but the offer fell short of Villa’s valuation. After Villa sold Jhon Duran to Al Nassr, they refused to let Watkins leave.

Arteta: “We Were Disciplined in Our Approach”

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Arteta addressed the lack of transfers:

“We had a clear intention, which is always to explore opportunities to improve our squad with players that can make an impact. We haven’t achieved that, so we are disappointed in that sense. But we are also very aware that we only want to bring in certain kinds of players, and we have to be very disciplined with that as well.”

Arsenal reportedly debated whether investing £30m in Reis was the best decision, particularly with Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus sidelined. Instead, they opted to focus on signing a striker, but ultimately, they were unable to close any deals.

What’s Next for Arsenal?

With the Premier League title race heating up, Arsenal must rely on internal squad depth to navigate upcoming challenges. While the club remains financially cautious, missing out on reinforcements could impact their campaign.

💬 What do you think? Should Arsenal have been more aggressive in the transfer market? Will the lack of signings hurt their title chances? Drop your thoughts in the comments!