Mikel Arteta ‘disappointed’ by Arsenal’s January transfer struggles

Mikel Arteta has admitted his disappointment over Arsenal’s failed attempts to strengthen their squad in the January transfer window.

With Gabriel Jesus (knee) and Bukayo Saka (hamstring) sidelined, the Gunners were desperate for attacking reinforcements.

However, a £45 million bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins was rejected, and a potential loan move for Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel fell through before Tottenham swooped in for the youngster.

Arsenal’s decision to hold off on signings has left them chasing Premier League leaders Liverpool and competing in the Champions League knockout rounds with a squad thinner than their rivals.

Despite the lack of additions, Arteta insists it was not a gamble, arguing that Arsenal will be in a stronger financial position to invest in top targets this summer, including RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, valued at £60 million.

With Jesus out long-term and Saka expected to return in March, Havertz remains Arsenal’s only fit centre-forward.

The 25-year-old German has delivered a career-best 15 goals across all competitions this season and has started 29 of Arsenal’s 37 games.