Arsenal target Kroupi and Yildiz in double January swoop to fuel title and Champions League push

Mikel Arteta is pushing Arsenal to make two signings in the January transfer window, with Bournemouth forward Junior Kroupi and Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz identified as the club’s primary targets as they pursue a Premier League and Champions League double.

Kroupi is Arsenal’s top priority, but Bournemouth have made clear they do not want to sell in January, and the Gunners are also expected to face competition from Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich for the forward’s signature. Interest in Yildiz is described as ongoing, with Arteta viewing reinforcements in the wide forward area as a necessity to sustain a two-front campaign.

Arsenal attempted to sign Morgan Rogers and then Vinicius Junior during the summer window but failed to land either. The club’s preference is to add quality on the left flank, though Arteta is also seeking a versatile forward capable of operating across multiple positions.

The Gunners sit three points clear at the top of the Premier League, and Arteta had initially hoped his existing squad depth would be sufficient. However, a demanding schedule — including three games in seven days — has reinforced his desire for January additions.

On the injury front, centre-back William Saliba has returned to outdoor training and is closing in on a first-team comeback after a back problem sustained at the World Cup. Arteta confirmed Saliba will be cleared to return once medical staff sign off on his recovery.

Teenager Max Dowman, 16, could feature in Arsenal’s upcoming Champions League fixture despite serving a three-game domestic ban following his red card at Fleetwood — a suspension that survived the club’s appeal. Arteta has been candid with the youngster about the demands of elite football while also offering reassurance ahead of a potential European appearance.