“I want to play for Mikel ARTETA, Pep Guardiola is a baby COACH AND keeps benching me, I have just started one game this season-Another Manchester City player has shown interest in joining Arsenal in January’: Arteta met with the player, and personal terms have already been negotiated – Here we go soon

Arsenal’s transfer priorities for the upcoming January window are undergoing a significant shift in response to the latest developments surrounding Thomas Partey and his persistent thigh injury.

Sources reveal that the midfielder has undergone a “procedure,” a situation that is expected to keep him out of action for the remainder of the year and raises concerns about his availability for Ghana in AFCON 2024. Partey’s recurring muscular issues have already led to him missing 10 games in the current campaign, prompting a reevaluation of Arsenal’s winter transfer strategy.

Originally poised to reinforce their attacking options with a new striker, Arsenal’s focus has pivoted, and they are now reportedly seeking to strengthen their midfield. At the forefront of their interest is Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, whom Arsenal had already tracked during the summer. The 24-year-old’s recent standout performance in the Champions League against Benfica has intensified Arsenal’s pursuit. However, the task may prove challenging, given Zubimendi’s release clause of €60 million (£52.3m) and growing interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

In addition to Zubimendi, 18-year-old Gabriel Moscardo is emerging as a potential midfield addition for Arsenal. The young talent has garnered attention from Premier League clubs like Everton, Liverpool, and Chelsea. Despite his age, Moscardo has already amassed 33 appearances in various competitions during the ongoing 2022/23 season, offering a promising and cost-effective solution for Mikel Arteta’s squad.

Another name in the mix is Kalvin Phillips, whose career at Manchester City has faced obstacles, primarily due to injuries and strong competition. Despite limited playing time at City, Phillips remains a key figure in Gareth Southgate’s England starting XI. Arteta may view Phillips as a player to help rediscover his best form, akin to his ongoing efforts with Kai Havertz. Considering the circumstances, a departure for Phillips from Manchester City in January appears likely.

As Arsenal navigates these potential midfield acquisitions, their initial plans centered around securing a new striker have been temporarily set aside due to the extended absence of Thomas Partey. The midfield reinforcement now takes precedence as Arsenal aims to address the challenges posed by Partey’s ongoing injury concerns.