Arsenal is set to host West Ham United at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, aiming to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool. The Gunners are currently trailing the Reds by eight points, but with Liverpool dropping points in recent fixtures, Mikel Arteta’s side sees an opportunity to reignite their title challenge.
Adding to Arsenal’s motivation, second-placed Manchester City faces a tough fixture against Arne Slot’s Liverpool on Sunday. If results go in their favor, the North London club could move within striking distance of the title race.
Arsenal Targets Zubimendi as Jorginho’s Successor
As the summer transfer window approaches, Arsenal is already planning for reinforcements, particularly in midfield. Reports indicate that the Gunners have set their sights on Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi as a long-term replacement for Jorginho, whose contract expires at the end of the season.
Zubimendi, who played a crucial role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, has been on the radar of several top European clubs, including Liverpool. Last summer, the Reds were close to triggering his £51 million release clause, but the player opted to stay at Sociedad. Arsenal is now looking to take advantage of the situation and steal a march on their rivals by meeting his release clause.
Arsenal to Revisit Goalkeeper Plans
In addition to strengthening the midfield, Arsenal is also revisiting their goalkeeping situation. Reports suggest that the club will make another attempt to sign Espanyol’s Joan Garcia this summer.
The 23-year-old Spaniard was previously linked with a move to the Emirates after Aaron Ramsdale’s departure but remained in La Liga due to a failed agreement between the two clubs. Now, with Espanyol reportedly willing to sanction his exit, Arsenal is expected to reignite their pursuit.
Gunners Aim for Three Points Against Struggling West Ham
As Arsenal prepares to face West Ham, Arteta’s men will be confident of securing all three points, given their strong record against the Hammers. The Gunners have scored five goals in each of their last two league meetings with their London rivals and will be keen to continue that dominance.
West Ham, currently struggling in 16th place, have been battling inconsistency under manager Graham Potter. They have won just one of their last five games and will need a strong defensive display to contain Arsenal’s attacking firepower.
With key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus dealing with injury concerns, Arsenal will be looking to new additions, including Raheem Sterling, to step up. The former Chelsea winger, who joined on loan in January, is expected to play a pivotal role in Arsenal’s title challenge.
A win against West Ham would keep Arsenal’s hopes alive in the title race and send a strong statement to their rivals. Arteta’s men will need to be at their best to maintain pressure on Liverpool and Manchester City as the Premier League season reaches its climax.
