Arsenal FFP update, with Gunners 'sailing close to the wind' – affecting their transfer plans: report

By Mark White
published

Arsenal have FFP considerations this January, with any deals needing to comply with the club's financial situation

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta during a training session at London Colney on November 23, 2023 in St Albans, England.
(Image credit: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal could have to be creative to sign new players this January, with Financial Fair Play to consider.

The Gunners spent around £200 million over the summer, having to sign David Raya on an initial loan deal with an option to make it permanent. This week, Arsenal have indicated their intention to trigger the option on the Spaniard as per Fabrizio Romano, though questions remain over their ability to make further acquisitions. 

The Athletic's David Ornstein has commented on the club's financial situation going forward, suggesting that the club have "financial manoeuvrability".

David Raya of Arsenal looks on during the Premier League match between Everton FC and Arsenal FC at Goodison Park on September 17, 2023 in Liverpool, England.

David Raya is moving to north London permanently (Image credit: Getty Images)

"Judging by their most signing (David Raya) being a loan for P&S [profit and sustainability] purposes, I imagine Arsenal (who have always been very diligent around this subject) are among a number of clubs sailing close to the wind," Ornstein confirmed on his Ask Ornstein Q&A.

"As previously mentioned on here, my understanding is that once Arsenal have proper financial manoeuvrability again the first thing they are committed to doing is turn the Raya deal permanent. 

"After that let's see what shape they're in and whether creativity is needed (i.e. sales to raise funds). KSE have shown their willingness to invest, pretty much since taking full ownership in 2018, but as we know it is not as straightforward as that."

Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke

Arsenal owner Stan Kroenke has invested well since assuming full control of the Gunners (Image credit: Getty)

With the Raya deal now done, the assumption is that Arsenal are now ready to get "creative" as Ornstein puts it to get more deals done this winter, with players targeted across the pitch.

Another midfielder and another forward are thought to be the priority. 

More Arsenal stories

Ex-Arsenal captain William Gallas has slammed Kai Havertz, while Gary Neville has claimed that the North Londoners will win the league this season. 

Jorginho's agent has confirmed that he is currently set for release at the Emirates Stadium, while Fabio Vieira has been linked with a January exit. Thomas Partey has reportedly asked to leave, too.

Meanwhile, Ryan Shawcross has reflected with FFT on his leg-breaking tackle on former Gunner Aaron Ramsey. 

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Mark White
Mark White
Content Editor

Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.