Arsenal’s search for the Premier League title took another step backward this season, despite their rock-solid defence.
While Mikel Arteta’s side conceded the fewest goals in the Premier League for the second year running, the gap to champions Liverpool came down to one simple fact: goals.
Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool tore the net apart with 86 league goals, compared to Arsenal’s 69.
Even Brighton and Brentford, both outside the top half, only managed 66 each—just a handful fewer than the Gunners.
Arteta knows that without more firepower in attack, no amount of defensive excellence will be enough.
That focus has dominated talks, but The Athletic reports there is ambition to strengthen the backline, too.
Currently, Arsenal boast William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes as arguably the best centre-back duo in England.
Behind them, a wealth of capable deputies; Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Jakub Kiwior, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Riccardo Calafiori provide cover.
Yet Arteta wants a third specialist, someone who can step in at the highest level without missing a beat.
And rather than splashing out on an expensive newcomer, Arsenal are eyeing a player whose contract is about to enter its final year, a situation that could make a deal much more affordable.
Arsenal’s scouting has settled on a stalwart who played a key part in helping his club lift their first major trophy last month and book a spot in Europe for the first time ever.
His combination of physical presence, defensive intelligence, and composure on the ball has drawn comparisons to some of the best in the league. That player is Marc Guehi.
The 24-year-old Englishman, currently at Crystal Palace, is valued more reasonably given his contract situation.
With his deal running down, Palace face a choice: cash in this summer or risk losing him for free next year.
Arsenal see an opportunity to secure a high-quality centre-back at a fair price in Guehi.
If they can agree terms with Palace, Marc Guehi could become the third pillar alongside Saliba and Magalhaes—ensuring that Arsenal’s defence remains as formidable as ever.
Want to get the latest transfer news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
