After narrowly falling short in previous Premier League campaigns, Arsenal entered the transfer window with the clear objective of improving squad depth and quality. The club’s strategy has involved creating space by moving on players who no longer fit Arteta’s long-term plans while investing in reinforcements capable of strengthening key areas.
The first significant exit came with Jakub Kiwior’s permanent transfer to Porto earlier this month. The Poland international joined the Portuguese side for a reported £14.6 million plus additional bonuses after spending last season on loan there.
Kiwior’s departure followed the arrival of Piero Hincapie, who Arsenal viewed as a more complete option in defence. The Ecuadorian defender quickly established himself as a popular figure at the Emirates Stadium after delivering consistent performances that contributed to the club’s title success last season.
Hincapie eventually secured a permanent move to north London in a £34.5 million deal, replacing Kiwior as a versatile defender capable of operating at centre-back and left-back. With competition for places increasing, Kiwior understood his first-team opportunities would become limited and was allowed to pursue a new challenge.
Another player to leave the club permanently was goalkeeper Karl Hein. The Estonia international completed a move to Werder Bremen after turning his loan spell in Germany into a full transfer.
Despite making his Arsenal debut in an EFL Cup third-round fixture against Brighton in November 2022, Hein struggled to break into the senior team. The 24-year-old spent time on loan at Reading, Real Valladolid and Werder Bremen before the German club made his move permanent.
His exit was approved by Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta as Arsenal continue to strengthen their goalkeeping options around first-choice goalkeeper David Raya. The club now have several alternatives, including 20-year-old Tommy Setford, Kepa Arrizabalaga and new signing Illan Meslier, who joined on a free transfer from Leeds United on a two-year contract.
The biggest departure of the summer so far has been the transfer of Leandro Trossard to Besiktas for £17 million. The Belgian played an important role in Arsenal’s title-winning campaign, particularly during the latter part of the season, but his exit was viewed as a strategic decision.
At 31 years old and with only one year remaining on his contract, Arsenal decided the timing was right to secure a transfer fee while creating room for a younger attacking option.
The club moved quickly to replace him by signing Christos Tzolis for £34 million. The Greek winger has been brought in to provide competition and depth on the left flank after an impressive campaign with Club Brugge, where he recorded 51 goal contributions in 52 appearances.
The series of moves highlight Arsenal’s approach under Arteta and Berta — focusing on targeted improvements rather than simply making high-profile signings. While some Premier League rivals have already spent heavily on marquee additions, Arsenal’s recruitment has centred on strengthening specific positions and maintaining squad balance.
However, the restructuring process is far from complete. More departures are expected before the transfer window closes, with players including Christian Norgaard, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and possibly Ethan Nwaneri among those whose futures could be assessed.
Further additions are also anticipated, with Arsenal still expected to invest significantly before the September 1 deadline. A top-level forward, a central midfielder and another defender remain areas the club is looking to reinforce as Arteta continues building a squad capable of competing across all competitions.