Mikel Arteta should sell Granit Xhaka and then get stuck into the transfer market.
That’s the opinion of Arsenal favourite Charlie Nicholas, who is desperate to see new recruits through the door at the Emirates this month.
Arteta has steadied the ship since being named Gunners boss, but the north London club have continued to leak goals.
Arsenal lack the financial muscle of their top six rivals, and Nicholas has suggested selling Xhaka to release funds. The Scot then believes Arteta should prioritise signing a centre-back to strengthen the Gunners’ defence.
“It is awkward watching Arsenal and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang is still out too,” Nicholas told Sky Sports.
(Image: REUTERS)
“You miss his goals but his pace and movement too, which makes the opposition have to defend ten yards deeper.
“It also creates space for Mesut Ozil. I think Gabriel Martinelli is going to be a star and a real goal-getter and eventually he will be a number nine.
“It is needs must at the moment. No centre-backs have been brought in yet, while Bukayo Saka is still at left-back.
“We are still waiting on transfers. Mikel Arteta has to get in the market and help the defence. They are not letting as many in but Arsenal do not have a clinical side yet.”
Arsenal take on Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday night.
Ahead of the match, Nicholas added: “Chelsea have not won much at home recently, except the Burnley game, but Arsenal will need to play defensively and see where it takes them.
(Image: Action Images via Reuters)
“I need so much more from Nicolas Pepe and a bit more from Alexandre Lacazette.
“Get the two protectors right in front of the back four, and I would still sell Granit Xhaka if the money was right. We could get by without him.
“I think Arsenal will be dangerous away from home, and Nicolas Pepe can deliver in these games, which suit him. He turned up the last time I said this against Manchester United.”
