Players who could go
Willian
Mikel Arteta’s biggest mistake in the transfer market. The manager hailed the former Chelsea player as someone who could “really make a difference to us” but the 33-year-old is likely to return home to Brazil.
Eddie Nketiah
Crystal Palace and Brighton are among those who have shown interest in the striker, who has just one year remaining on his contract. He would be cheaper to buy in January.
Alexandre Lacazette
Has one year left on his deal and is another who earns sizeable pre-pandemic wages. A possible option in a swap deal, perhaps, but more likely to leave on a free in a year.
Lucas Torreira
The Uruguayan is another player with no future at Arsenal, despite such a brilliant start after joining in 2018. Looks set for a move to a European club, with Italy his preferred destination.
Pierre-emerick Aubameyang
Arsenal’s leading striker has struggled with form and fitness, and is no longer considered one of the club’s unsellables. The key question is whether any potential buyers could afford his wages.
Bernd Leno
Leno was expected to leave this summer, but has not attracted any interest. The addition of Aaron Ramsdale for £24 million is an indication that Leno’s long-term future does not lie in north London.
Hector Bellerin
The long-serving full-back is keen for a new challenge, having come close to leaving last year. Arsenal are yet to receive an appropriate offer, but could potentially use Bellerin as part of a swap deal.
Reiss Nelson
A departure, on loan or a permanent basis, feels like the winger’s best chance to revive his career. He has promise but needs opportunities to show it. Crystal Palace have been linked.
Sead Kolasinac
The left-back is not part of Arteta’s plans and is expected to leave in the coming days. His wages represent the biggest problem: he earns around £100,000 a week. Can buying clubs match that salary?
Ainsley Maitland-niles
Barely featured in the first half of last season before a loan to West Bromwich Albion. His versatility makes him useful, but it is clear he is no longer a key part of Arteta’s thinking.