Arteta's summer transfer spending spree uncertain as 7 stars set for exit

Arsenal’s summer transfer window plans are reportedly set to be reliant on the departures of seven members of Mikel Arteta ’s squad.

After a disappointing Premier League campaign which has left them clinging on to a spot in the top-half, the Gunners are expected to be active in the market.

But with several members of Arteta’s squad not up to the standards required, an exodus could be on the cards as the Spaniard seeks to rebuild his team.

The Gunners are reported to be prioritising an attacking midfielder, right-back and a left-back this summer, with a new striker also being sought after a tough season for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

But though Arteta plans bring in several new players, he could be limited by how much money the club is able to bring in through sales.

The Athletic report that the Gunners’ plans will be heavily affected by the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, with many sides suffering financially.

But the news website also states that they expect to be able to raise a significant amount of funds through the departures of seven players.

They claim that David Luiz, Dani Ceballos, Mat Ryan, Hector Bellerin, Reiss Nelson, Lucas Torreira and Matteo Guendouzi are all heading for the Arsenal exit door.

Luiz has been one of Arteta’s more reliable options at the back, though he has failed to make the last six matchday squads.

The Brazilian’s contract expires in June and with Rob Holding, Pablo Mari, and Gabriel ahead of him in the pecking order, he is unlikely to be given a new deal.

Meanwhile, Ceballos and Ryan will return to their parent clubs of Real Madrid and Brighton upon the end of their loan deals, saving Arsenal money in wages.

Bellerin has fallen out of favour under Arteta, with Calum Chambers taking his spot as the first choice right-back.

The Gunners are reportedly willing to let Bellerin depart this summer, with Barcelona and PSG both linked with a move.

Nelson is another who has failed to break into Arteta’s plans, making just two appearances in the Premier League this campaign.

With other options ahead of him, the Gunners can bring in a relatively sizeable fee as he still has two years left on his contract.

Torreira meanwhile appeared set to become a regular feature of Arsenal’s midfield when moved to the club, but has spent this season on loan at Atletico Madrid.

The Uruguayan has also recently demanded he be allowed to move to Boca Juniors to be closer to his family.

Guendouzi has also spent this season out on loan, with the midfielder turning out for Hertha Berlin this term.

The Frenchman has a troubled relationship with Arteta and would appear to be surplus to requirements.