Arsenal’s transfer deadline day: Who they need, want and could get
The Evening Standard's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
As the clock ticks down towards Thursday's transfer deadline, Arsenal remain active.
Arsene Wenger described his squad as 'unmanageably big' earlier in August, so the focus will remain on streamlining rather than adding to his squad.
However, a major departure could trigger a last-ditch splurge from the Gunners...
Who do Arsenal need before the window shuts?
Arsenal were not expected to make any major signings before the window closes, but their business will hinge on outgoings. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has completed a £40million move to Liverpool, while Alexis Sanchez and Mustafi are the other big names who could still move on which would leave the Gunners short in those areas.
Who does Wenger want?
A £70million offer for Sanchez from City might be enough to tempt Arsenal into a sale and prompt a late scramble to find a replacement.
Raheem Sterling or Sergio Aguero in part exchange would make the most sense, while the Gunners have been chasing a deal for Monaco's Thomas Lemar for most of the summer. Wenger said a deal for Lemar was "dead" last week, but Liverpool are persisting with a move for the France international and Arsenal would likely revive their interest if a transfer became possible.
Julian Draxler is also a player that Wenger is keen on, but Germany boss Joachim Low has said Paris Saint-Germain would be unwilling to sell. Meanwhile, Jean Michael Seri remains on the club's radar. Arsenal could yet make a move for Everton's Ross Barkley.
Who Arsenal could sign?
| Player | Odds |
| Thomas Lemar | 5/1 |
| Riyad Mahrez | 4/1 |
| Ross Barkley | 12/1 |
| Moussa Dembele | 8/1 |
| Julian Draxler | 11/10 |
Odds provided by Betfair, correct as of 12.20pm.
