Arsenal news and transfers LIVE: Injury boost, Mikel Arteta Everton warning (2023)

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Full squad revealed

Arsenal's full Premier League squad has been confirmed for the second half of the season as they look to make history by winning the Premier League title.

The Gunners sit at the top of the league at the halfway point, impressing many with their performances along the way too.

Read the full story here.

Martinelli contract

Zubimendi battle

Arsenal could be set to battle Barcelona for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer, according to reports.

The Gunners were linked with a move in January, but didn't get a move over the line.

Training pictures

Arsenal are preparing for another huge month ahead as February promises to bring plenty more twists and turns to the Premier League title race, with Everton up next.

With the side gearing up for the match, plenty has been spotted from training, so here's four things that were seen.

Read the full story here.

Reason for Lokonga exit...

According to The Athletic, the decision to let Albert Sambi Lokonga leave on loan potentially incurs some risk but Arsenal chose to respect the player’s desire for regular football. No decision has yet been reached on his or Cedric Soares’ future beyond the summer.

Sean Dyche sends Mikel Arteta clear warning

New Everton boss Sean Dyche has warned Mikel Arteta that his team will be ready to face Arsenal when the two meet this Saturday. It comes as the sides prepare for a clash that will impact both ends of the table, no matter the result at full-time at Goodison Park.

As quoted by the Liverpool Echo, Dyche said: "Fine side [Arsenal], very good side, obviously people are talking about winning the league that stands for itself. You've got to play everyone, the way the fixture falls is just one of those things.

"They're having a very good time at the moment but they've known long enough, at my previous club that they'll realise but I usually put out a team that are ready. Ready for the challenge, I wouldn't imagine they're underestimating the challenge."

Four things spotted in Arsenal training before Everton

Two out of the three January signings added to the squad in January were prominent in the pictures released by Arsenal. Jakub Kiwior was seen defending against Takehiro Tomiyasu, with the latter aiming to make an appearance at the weekend.

Leandro Trossard was also seen in training after a hectic few weeks for the Belgian international. Shortly after making his switch from Brighton to Arsenal, the forward was then absent from one training session as he and his partner welcomed a new addition to the world with a newborn child, but has since made a swift return.

While there were plenty of players involved in training, the released pictures by the club does have some notable absences in them. Emile Smith Rowe and Thomas Partey are two of those, with the pair having been injury concerns against Manchester City in last Friday's FA Cup clash.

Read what else we noticed here.

Reiss Nelson return

Nelson was the headline act earlier this season in the thrashing of Nottingham Forest, scoring a brace from the bench. With the importance of Bukayo Saka on the right, the reintroduction of the academy graduate could be a huge relief for Arteta, should he need to shuffle his deck for certain matches. The manager is edging ever closer to having a full squad at his disposal once again, which will be key for the run-in ahead.

Arteta has plan for Balogun return...

Mikel Arteta's stance on the development of on-loan Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun is clear after the 21-year-old netted a hat-trick in Reims' 4-2 win over Lorient on Wednesday night to become Ligue 1's top goalscorer.

Speaking in 2021, the Spaniard said: “We have been extremely impressed with Flo this season. He has continually shown his natural ability in many training sessions with us and we have been equally impressed with his early integration into the first-team squad on matchdays.

"He has given us glimpses of the performances and of course his two goals already for the first team.The hard work starts here for Flo and we are all looking forward to supporting and working with him in the years to come."

Balogun, too, has already reaped the rewards of a temporary move away from his boyhood team, expanding on the benefits of his stint in France during an interview with L'Equipe.

"Arsenal is my family. For me, the club represents brotherhood and unity," Balogun explained. "There, I learned always to push my limits. I remember from training the permanent desire to progress on a technical level.

"I think by the time I go back I’ll be in a better place to compete than I was before I left. I realised there were certain things I would struggle with, but I think that’s a good thing. It helps you to manage stuff you’re uncomfortable with which is important."

Tomiyasu reveals why ‘aggressive’ Martinelli is his least favourite player to face in training

When asked who gives him the most trouble in training, Tomiyasu told Goal: "Gabriel Martinelli. He never stops. He has pace, aggression. He’s still young, but when he has the ball he wants to make the difference, he wants to do something."

Tomiyasu continued by naming Arteta has the best manager he has ever had. He said: "Mikel knows about football, he knows about football structure, [he knows] everything.

"Our job is to just explain on the pitch what he says. I believe him. He’s just amazing. He’s the best manager I’ve ever played with. We understand more [about] Mikel’s football."

Potter on Jorginho move to Arsenal

Graham Potter on Jorginho's exit: "Firstly, he's been fantastic. Great person. His service and what he's achieved is brilliant. Sometimes you have to make a decision, he had something to secure for his family, it was a win-win-win. I wish him well. Top professional, top person."

Rio Ferdinand and Roy Keane disagree on Premier League title race

Speaking about the championship race on his FIVE YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: "I think it's a wrap. I've got to be honest, I do. No matter what results Arsenal get against Man City, I still think Arsenal have enough confidence, quality and calmness to take the title."

Ferdinand's comments certainly don't go hand in hand with his former United teammate Roy Keane, who still thinks that City will be too much for Arteta's young side.

Speaking after the Gunners beat the Red Devils last month, Keane said: "If I were to put money on it I would still think City [will win it], but what we’ve seen of Arsenal today, seeing them live, the game today, the technical ability, the mentality today, it will take a lot to stop them and I wouldn’t be shocked if they do go on and win it.

"I still maybe sway towards Manchester City, just because of what they’ve shown us over the last few years."

Arsenal tipped to beat Everton

Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has tipped the Gunners to cruise to victory against Everton despite the recent appointment of Sean Dyche at Goodison Park.

Silvestre told bettingexpert: "I think Arsenal should win that game because of the dynamic, the momentum and the positive attitude they have. Everton, I think if they concede one, they could be in big trouble.

“New manager, yeah, lifts the mood but you can’t fix things in a week, in a few days. I see one outcome in that game, a win for Arsenal.”

Gallas has a lot of praise for Saliba

Speaking to Genting Casino, former Arsenal defender William Gallas ranked Saliba as one of the top three defenders in the Premier League this season. The French icon said: "I have three defenders in my mind that I believe have been performing really well for their clubs this season.

"Saliba at Arsenal is a player that has impressed me a lot. For a boy of his age, he is very strong in the defensive line and plays with a lot of confidence. He still makes little mistakes, but I think what he is doing for and the role he is playing in Arsenal’s defence is magnificent."

Saka is recognised for his great work off the pitch

Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has been recognised on the Football Black List. The Football Black List is an initiative to highlight the most influential black figures in the game.

The Football Black List was first published back in 2008 and looks to highlight black industry professionals who are positive influencers. The annual Football Black List recognises the efforts of black figures working in various areas of the sport.

Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford also join Saka on the list. All three players continue to push for positive change in society and sport, and now have rightfully been recognised in the Football Black List. Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List, said: "We are delighted to be sharing another incredible and inspirational Football Black List.

"Black excellence shines so brightly in the game and this list underlines that. I am particularly proud to see the list now feature board members, and managers at the top of the game but clearly we still have a long way to go to see better representation in football."

Read the full story here.

Moises Caicedo's agent on failed Arsenal transfer

Brighton star Caicedo was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal in January but a move failed to materialise. Despite the midfielder pleading to leave in a statement posted to social media, the Seagulls stood strong by their asking price which was not met.

Caicedo’s agent, Manuel Sierra, has now broken his silence on his client’s failed move to the Gunners. Speaking to Marca90Ec, as quoted by Olé, Sierra said: "The offers were received, you see what is on the table and Moisés says that he wants to go forward, that it is the dream of his whole life.

Balogun is on fire this season!

In Europe’s top five leagues, only Erling Haaland (25 goals) and Harry Kane (16 goals) have scored more goals than on-loan Arsenal star Folarin Balogun (16 goals) in all competitions this season.

Pepe shows Arteta appreciation

Will Arsenal sign Rice in the summer?

Betfair: Declan Rice to sign for before September 4, 2023
Arsenal: 7/4
Man Utd: 3/1
Not to sign or agree a contract with any other club: 7/2
Chelsea: 4/1
Liverpool: 9/1
Newcastle: 10/1
Man City: 14/1

Find the odds here!

Thomas Partey compared to Claude Makelele by Arsenal icon

Speaking to Genting Casino, former Arsenal star William Gallas has compared Thomas Partey to Chelsea legend Claude Makelele and believes the Gunners are not to the same team without the Ghanaian midfielder in the side. Gallas said: "I think Thomas Partey is a really important player for Arsenal and Arteta’s system.

"He sits just in front of the defenders, but what I like about him is his overall game. He doesn’t just defend, he attacks too.

"Technically, he is a really good player and I think he is a player that may not be spoken about as much as some of Arsenal’s creative players like Odegaard, who has been magnificent for Arsenal this season. But, without him [Partey] Arsenal are not the same team.

"Football has changed since I played in the Premier League. Now, even the so called smaller clubs approach games looking to win them, they are not afraid to play anymore. If you don’t have a guy doing Partey’s job in the team, sitting in front of the defence, it can be very difficult for your defenders.

"When I played with Chelsea, we had Makelele. He was such an important player for Chelsea. He wasn’t spoken about a lot, he didn’t have the spotlight, but he was very important for the balance of the team."

Rio Ferdinand delivers Jorginho transfer verdict

"He’s a fine technician on the ball and I think he will be a point of difference to Partey. He can come in if need be and fill that gap with the experience he’s got,” he said. “I don’t see him being a starter for Arsenal, I’ve got to be honest. I don’t think Jorginho is a long-term signing. He’s a stop-gap and they will get a big midfielder in the summer."

William Saliba one of the best in the league

Speaking to Genting Casino, former Chelsea, Arsenal and Tottenham defender William Gallas has claimed that William Saliba is one of the best performing defenders in the Premier League.

"Saliba at Arsenal is a player that has impressed me a lot. For a boy of his age, he is very strong in the defensive line and plays with a lot of confidence.

"He still makes little mistakes, but I think what he is doing for and the role he is playing in Arsenal’s defence is magnificent," Gallas added.

Gabriel Jesus returns

Gabriel Jesus has posted an Instagram story of him wearing on boots on grass for the first time since suffering his knee injury in the World Cup.

Instagram

Declan Rice the key prize for Edu and Arsenal

Arsenal have succeeded in what they set out to do in the January transfer market in basic terms. Mikel Arteta wanted a wide attacker, a centre-half and a midfielder and his sporting director Edu Gaspar has secured reinforcement in all three positions.

However, Arsenal were interested in two players that didn’t arrive. Mykhailo Mudryk left for Chelsea after three bids from the Gunners were rejected with the final bid almost reaching Shakhtar Donetsk’s €100million (£88.4million) demand but the Blues swooped in with a better structure and got it done.

Arsenal moved quickly to secure Leandro Trossard but waited until the end of the window loomed to move for primary midfield target Moises Caicedo. The Gunners have a summer priority too in the form of Declan Rice and football.london understands the second £70million bid was not deemed to impact the future chase of the England international.

Read the full story here

Jorginho set for new role

The dust is beginning to settle on what was, as expected, a busy January transfer window for Arsenal as manager Mikel Arteta got his wish of bolstering the first-team squad.

Of course, things weren't plain sailing for the Gunners by any means last month. A strict policy on not being dragged into a bidding war for players ultimately meant they lost out to Chelsea for the signing of talented winger Mykhailo Mudryk, whilst two offers for Moises Caicedo were rejected by Brighton & Hove Albion.

Read the full story, here.

Caicedo breakdown

Brighton’s owner & chairman, Tony Bloom, was insistent Moises Caicedo was not going anywhere. On January 28, in an attempt to find a breakthrough, a call took place between Bloom & Arsenal board member Tim Lewis. The discussions reached a dead end according to The Athletic.

Rio Ferdinand and Roy Keane on the Premier League title race

Speaking about the championship race on his FIVE YouTube channel, Ferdinand said: "I think it's a wrap. I've got to be honest, I do.

"No matter what results Arsenal get against Man City, I still think Arsenal have enough confidence, quality and calmness to take the title." Ferdinand's comments certainly don't go hand in hand with his former United teammate Roy Keane, who still thinks that City will be too much for Arteta's young side.

Speaking after the Gunners beat the Red Devils last month, Keane said: "If I were to put money on it I would still think City (will win it), but what we’ve seen of Arsenal today, seeing them live, the game today, the technical ability, the mentality today, it will take a lot to stop them and I wouldn’t be shocked if they do go on and win it.

"I still maybe sway towards Manchester City, just because of what they’ve shown us over the last few years."

Read more here.

What Oleksandr Zinchenko did to Jorginho after Arsenal completed £12m transfer on deadline day

Arsenal star Oleksandr Zinchenko was one of the first players to welcome Jorginho to the club after the former Chelsea midfielder swapped west London for north London on deadline day. The 31-year-old sealed a £12million transfer to become the Gunners' third January signing, joining Leandro Trossard and Jakub Kiwior at the Emirates Stadium.

The Ukrainian defender arrived at Arsenal last summer from Manchester City and whilst he has struggled with injuries this term, he still has proven to be a key player for Arteta. Zinchenko is one of the most popular personalities in the squad now due to his team spirit and leadership.

Arteta will hope Jorginho can have a similar impact, using his experiences of winning trophies to help Arsenal in their title race against City. On the Italy international's first day as an Arsenal player Zinchenko welcomed Jorginho with an awkward interaction at the training ground.

The two players met at an entrance way in the training complex with both being polite and holding the door for one another, before Zinchenko insisted the £12million signing walk through first. The video highlighted the positive atmosphere at the club as the Gunners continue to challenge for the Premier League and Europa League.

Balogun stars

Arsenal youngster Folarin Balogun continues to shine whilst on loan with Ligue 1 outfit Reims.

The 21-year-old scored a first-half penalty during his side's 4-2 win over Lorient on Wednesday night before scoring two more after the break.

His hat trick now means he is the current top scorer this season in Ligue 1.