Arsenal have ‘an even bigger opportunity’ to back manager Mikel Arteta and strengthen their first-team squad in January, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Gunners were left frustrated over their pursuits of certain players in the previous transfer window and could look to strengthen particular areas of the pitch once again when the market re-opens for business.

What is the latest news involving Arsenal?

Arteta was unable to bring in the likes of Lisandro Martinez, Douglas Luiz and Raphinha in the summer, leaving his side short of strength in depth.

However, ESPN have claimed that Arsenal are ‘keen on adding a central midfielder and a winger’ if possible in the winter window with the club's owners ready to back a bid for the Premier League title.

The north London outfit are currently sitting five points clear of reigning champions Manchester City at the top of the table.

Arsenal know that tougher tests are to come, though, and bringing in a couple of astute acquisitions in January could prove to be pivotal in their push for silverware.

What has Romano said about Arsenal?

Romano believes that Arsenal were ‘really smart’ in their transfer strategy over the summer and that they will adopt a similar approach this time around.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “Yes, I think it’s an even bigger opportunity for them to show that they want to sign again the right players at the right moment.

Read more: January Transfer Window 2023: When Does It Begin, Rumours and Everything You Need To Know

“I think they were really smart in the summer because they wanted, for example, Raphinha as a winger, but then they were not able to compete with Barcelona because the player wanted to join Barcelona.

“So, they didn’t waste money on players they were not trusting, they were waiting and waiting as they did with (Dusan) Vlahovic last January. They wanted Vlahovic, but he decided to join Juventus, they decided to wait and sign Gabriel Jesus. So, the strategy will be the same.”

Who could Arsenal sign?

ESPN have also stated that Arsenal are set to revive their interest in Palmeiras midfielder Danilo, although they are set to face stiff competition from Ajax and Monaco.

The Brazilian outfit are believed to value the 21-year-old at around €24 million (£20.6m), and the two clubs are said to be ‘in contact’ over a possible deal.

Shakhtar Donestk’s Mykhaylo Mudryk has been widely touted as Arsenal’s top target out wide, with Romano previously stating to GMS that they have ‘explored’ the option of securing his signature.