Mikel Arteta's Arsenal faces a pivotal January as the manager acknowledges critical gaps within the squad, prompting potential moves in the transfer window. The Gunners boss highlighted the urgency: “We have positions that we have been very exposed in for the last six weeks.”

Ahead of their clash against West Ham, Arsenal faces a depleted lineup with key players like Thomas Partey, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and others sidelined. The looming departures for AFCON intensify the squad's thinning, leaving Arteta and Edu exploring options to plug the impending gaps.

Arteta emphasized the club's readiness for quick action, noting, “We have certain targets and ideas if things happen.” However, concerns over Financial Fair Play (FFP) loom large following substantial summer spending, potentially impacting their transfer strategy.

Despite recent rumors linking Ramsdale to other clubs, Arteta affirmed his desire to retain the goalkeeper. Nonetheless, the possibility of reinforcing the squad remains a priority as Arsenal navigates a competitive title race.

The Gunners' hefty summer spending and imminent financial commitments place a strategic burden on potential January signings. With a keen eye on reinforcing the squad's weaknesses, Arsenal remains cautiously open to bolstering their roster should the right opportunity arise.

As the January transfer market unfolds, Arsenal's stance reflects their commitment to strengthening the team's prospects amidst an unpredictable landscape. Arteta's assertion, “We will be prepared, and we will try to make the right calls,” underscores the club's determination to fortify their chances in the ongoing campaign.

The challenge lies in balancing immediate squad needs with financial prudence, especially after the high-profile summer acquisitions of Jurrien Timber, Kai Havertz, and Declan Rice, amounting to £210m, alongside the pending £27m deal for loanee Raya from Brentford.

Having narrowly missed last season's title, Arsenal's resolve to address deficiencies without destabilizing the squad dynamics emerges as a crucial narrative. The evolving market dynamics and the team's position atop the table add complexity to their transfer strategy, requiring a delicate balancing act as they seek to reinforce their aspirations for silverware.