Arsenal are approaching one of their most important summers in recent years, and this time the conversation goes beyond new signings. The focus is shifting toward a structural reset of the squad.

While the club remains in contention for major honors, internal planning is already underway. The message from the board is clear: Mikel Arteta is central to the project. Negotiations over a contract extension are progressing, and the Spaniard is expected to remain at the Emirates regardless of how the season concludes.

But stability at the top does not mean continuity across the squad.

Behind the scenes, Arsenal are preparing for a transfer window that could see multiple departures—some surprising, others inevitable.

Arteta’s current deal is entering its final stretch. Rather than wait, both sides have opened discussions early, a sign of alignment between manager and ownership.

However, the extension is not just about salary or duration.

Arteta is seeking guarantees. He wants confirmation that the club will continue to support his long-term vision, particularly in the transfer market. That backing has been significant in recent seasons, with Arsenal investing more than $315 million in a single summer to close the gap on their rivals.

Instead of continuous spending, the club is looking to balance the books through outgoing transfers. Arsenal’s leadership understands that maintaining financial flexibility is key, especially with UEFA regulations tightening around squad costs.

Several names have already been placed in the shop window.

Young talents such as Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri could be sold despite signing long-term deals. From a financial perspective, these potential transfers are particularly attractive. As academy products, any fee received would be recorded as pure profit, strengthening the club’s position for future investments.

The potential exits are not limited to youth prospects.

Senior players are also being evaluated, and some high-profile names could be moved on. Gabriel Martinelli, once a key figure in Arsenal’s attacking plans, is among those under consideration after a season that has not met expectations. His market value remains strong, which makes him a viable option to generate funds.

Gabriel Jesus is another case. Injuries and inconsistency have limited his influence, and the club may decide that reallocating his salary—estimated at over $13 million annually—would be more beneficial than retaining him.

Then there is Ben White.

A versatile defender who has been important in recent campaigns, but with Arsenal looking to refresh certain areas of the backline, even established players are not guaranteed to stay. Any transfer involving White would likely command a significant fee, potentially exceeding $50 million depending on market conditions.

Despite all the movement, not everyone is under threat.

Martin Ødegaard remains a central piece of the project. Even with occasional criticism during the title race, Arteta views him as essential to the team’s identity and leadership structure.

At the same time, recruitment plans are already taking shape.

Arsenal are targeting reinforcements at full-back and in midfield, with players capable of handling the demands of multiple competitions. The objective is clear: build a squad that can rotate without losing intensity, something that has proven decisive in tight title races.