Mikel Arteta knows his Arsenal tenure will be defined by the 2025/26 Premier League season.
The Spanish tactician has led the Gunners back into the title race in recent years, but they have consistently fallen short, with three successive second place finishes.
His side finished 10 points behind Arne Slot's Liverpool in 2024/25, and the former midfielder is under pressure to deliver a major trophy, after so many of near misses at the Emirates Stadium.
Ahead of the new campaign, Arteta has spent big again, with £122m already paid out on Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke as he looks to build a deep squad capable of fighting all the way with Liverpool and a revived Manchester City.
Talks are also ongoing over a £63m deal to land Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP, with negotiations now stretching on for over a month, amid lingering transfer interest in Valencia star Cristhian Mosquera.
The deal for Gyokeres has been hit by multiple delays, and Arteta is growing concerned it could eventually fall apart, with Manchester United on standby to revive their own link with the Swede.
Despite the major financial outlay, Arteta wants more, as he outlined a clear plan ahead of a preseason tour in Asia.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Mikel Arteta confirms Arsenal will sign more players this summer
Arteta opted against an update on the latest with Gyokeres but he insisted his squad is not yet complete for the challenge ahead in 2025/26.
"I can't comment on a player who is not part of our group yet. When we have something concrete to offer in any case to any player, we'll do that," as per BBC Sport.
"There's still a long time in the window and we are seeking still.
"In terms of numbers, we are short and have to improve the depth and quality of the squad. We are constantly looking in the market."
Arteta has named a 30-player squad for their tour, which could be added to, ahead of three games split between Singapore and Hong Kong.
First up is a clash with AC Milan on July 23, followed by a match with Newcastle United on July 27 - both at the National Stadium in Kallang in Singapore.
That double header is followed by a North London derby clash against arch rivals Tottenham in Hong Kong's Kai Tak Sports Park on July 31.
Arsenal news and related links
- Former Arsenal star set for Premier League return after Saudi Arabia snub
- How to pronounce Viktor Gyokeres: A guide to saying the new Arsenal striker's name
- Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal: Transfer fee, contract, salary, squad number