Rodrygo signs, Sesko in, wonderkid deal, five exits – Arsenal best case transfer window scenario

With the 2025 summer transfer window set to fully reopen in just days, Arsenal find themselves at a defining moment. Mikel Arteta and new technical director Andrea Berta are preparing for a busy window that could reshape the club’s fortunes ahead of the 2025/26 season. After finishing runners-up in the Premier League for three consecutive years and falling short in the Champions League semi-finals, there’s growing pressure on Arsenal to turn potential into silverware.

Despite the transfer window opening briefly from June 1 to June 10—primarily for Club World Cup participants—Arsenal remained inactive. While Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Chelsea all made early moves, the Gunners were noticeably quiet. That silence has now sparked anticipation. Arsenal fans expect fireworks in July and August, and the blueprint for a perfect window is already taking shape.

According to football.london, Arsenal intend to reinforce every department on the pitch. A new goalkeeper, centre-back, midfielder, striker, and possibly a wide forward are all on the agenda. While no signings have been officially confirmed yet, deals are brewing behind the scenes. If everything falls into place, Arsenal’s “best-case” transfer window could be one of the most memorable in recent club history.

Starting with the goalkeeper position, the club is close to completing a £5 million deal for Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea. It’s a staggering drop from his £71 million fee in 2018, but Arteta sees the Spaniard as an experienced backup and competition for David Raya. With Aaron Ramsdale likely to depart in search of regular football, Kepa’s arrival adds depth without breaking the bank.

The midfield, another area needing reinforcement, seems well on track. Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi is reportedly on his way to north London. The 25-year-old Spaniard is admired by Arteta for his press resistance and intelligence in possession. A £51 million agreement appears imminent, especially now that Real Madrid have turned their attention elsewhere.

But the real headache—and perhaps the most pressing need—is up front. Arsenal have desperately lacked a prolific No. 9. Gabriel Jesus has struggled with injuries, and Eddie Nketiah has not convinced. The club has its sights set on two options: Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko. Each presents different advantages.

Sesko, just 22, is the more expensive option, but he brings top-tier experience and long-term potential. Meanwhile, Gyokeres has lit up the Portuguese league with his goal-scoring prowess and is seen as a more immediate impact player. Arsenal’s recruitment team is still weighing both options, but a move for one is expected to materialize before the end of July.

In defence, Arsenal were interested in Dean Huijsen before his switch to Real Madrid. Still, their search for a centre-back continues. The name at the top of the list? Jorrel Hato. The 19-year-old Ajax prodigy was crowned Eredivisie’s Young Player of the Season and is considered one of Europe’s brightest young defenders. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Arsenal’s renewed interest, and a deal could signal a changing of the guard in Arteta’s backline.

Then there’s the wildcard: a wide forward. Arteta wants someone who can challenge Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli while also raising the overall quality in attack. Nico Williams was once considered the favourite, but wage demands and contract complications have made the pursuit tricky. Enter Rodrygo.

The Brazilian forward is reportedly open to a new challenge, with Real Madrid’s recent signings pushing him down the pecking order. Arsenal are now preparing a €70 million offer for the 24-year-old, who played a pivotal role in Madrid’s recent Champions League triumph. Rodrygo’s potential arrival would be a major statement and give Arsenal a player capable of winning matches on his own.

But while the incomings are vital, Arsenal’s outgoings will also define the window. One longstanding criticism of the Gunners’ transfer policy is their inability to generate significant fees from sales. This summer could follow a similar trend.

Fabio Vieira, Albert Sambi Lokonga, and Reiss Nelson all spent last season out on loan, but none are expected to fetch considerable sums. Vieira, once a €35 million acquisition from Porto, has failed to impress. Lokonga may be sold permanently to Luton Town or another mid-table side, and Reiss Nelson, despite glimpses of brilliance, remains a squad player at best.

Arsenal’s lack of major sales in recent seasons—compared to Chelsea or Liverpool—has restricted their spending power. However, some academy products could bring in modest fees, helping to balance the books. If the club can generate £40-50 million through fringe player exits, it would help fund marquee additions without breaching financial rules.

Another issue facing the club is squad balance. With a Champions League campaign ahead and increased fixture congestion, Arteta knows that depth will be critical. That’s why players like Emile Smith Rowe, who fell out of favour last season, might be given another chance rather than sold.

Internally, Arteta wants a squad capable of rotation without a dip in quality. The idea is to mirror what Manchester City have built—a team where backups can perform at nearly the same level as starters. Signing players like Rodrygo and Zubimendi would certainly help close that gap.

The appointment of Andrea Berta, formerly of Atletico Madrid, also signals a new strategic approach. Berta is known for his savvy negotiations and eye for undervalued talent. If his influence kicks in immediately, Arsenal could finally shake off their “nearly men” tag and become serious contenders in both domestic and European competitions.

Of course, much depends on timing. The earlier the club can wrap up key signings, the better the integration process during preseason. Arteta is keen on having his full squad available for their U.S. tour in late July, where they’ll face top opposition in preparation for the new campaign.

In summary, Arsenal’s best-case summer window is ambitious but not impossible. With Kepa, Zubimendi, Hato, a top striker, and Rodrygo all potentially joining, this could be the most complete squad Arteta has ever managed. Add a few smart sales and no major injury setbacks, and Arsenal fans have every reason to believe that 2025/26 might finally be their year.

As the window reopens and negotiations intensify, all eyes will be on the Emirates. For Arsenal, the goal is clear: close the gap, lift a major trophy, and announce themselves as one of Europe’s elite once again.