The Gunners are scheduled to depart for Asia later this week, kicking off their tour in Singapore with a high-profile clash against AC Milan on July 23, followed by a fixture against Newcastle United four days later. From there, they will head to Hong Kong for a blockbuster North London derby with Tottenham on July 31.
The biggest headline ahead of the tour is Arsenal’s agreement in principle with Sporting CP for the prolific Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres. According to multiple sources including football.london, the club has agreed to pay a guaranteed £54.8 million plus £8.6 million in performance-related bonuses. The deal is so advanced that Gyökeres is expected to undergo a medical this week and join the squad before they depart London.
Gyökeres’ arrival would add a much-needed clinical edge to Arsenal’s attack, a department where they fell short last season despite their overall strong performances. Arteta has long admired the forward’s powerful running, intelligent movement, and physical presence—attributes that could make him the focal point of their attack.
As if one marquee signing wasn’t enough, Arsenal are also on the verge of completing a £52 million move for Chelsea’s Noni Madueke. The talented winger is set to bolster the right-wing options and serve as cover for Bukayo Saka, though his versatility means he could also feature on the left or in central attacking roles.
Madueke’s inclusion in the squad presents Arteta with a welcome selection headache. With Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard already competing for minutes on the left flank—and the likes of Kai Havertz capable of operating across the forward line—the Gunners are building formidable depth in the attacking department.
Midfield reinforcement is also in focus. Arsenal remain confident of landing Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, who would join Declan Rice and captain Martin Ødegaard in a dynamic, possession-hungry midfield trio. With Thomas Partey’s long-term future still uncertain, Zubimendi’s arrival would solidify the base of Arteta’s tactical system.
Arteta’s tactical blueprint increasingly resembles that of Pep Guardiola, and the manager is determined to implement it to perfection this season. That means flexibility in possession, aggressive pressing, and full-backs capable of inverting into midfield. Jurrien Timber, who missed most of last season with injury, is expected to play a key role in that hybrid defender-midfielder role.
In goal, David Raya looks set to continue as Arsenal’s No.1, having completed a permanent move following his season-long loan. Aaron Ramsdale’s future remains up in the air, but for now, Raya is expected to start the upcoming friendlies.
The left-back slot could be filled by the emerging talent Myles Lewis-Skelly, who impressed last season with his composure and distribution. The youngster’s development has reportedly caught Arteta’s eye, and he could be tested during the pre-season tour.
One exciting name expected to be eased back in is teenage sensation Ethan Nwaneri. Fresh off a successful campaign with England’s U21 squad, Nwaneri is seen as the jewel of Hale End. Arteta is eager to integrate him gradually into the first team this season.
Should all the signings materialize before the AC Milan friendly, Arsenal’s potential starting XI could be one of the most fearsome in recent memory:
Raya; Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Lewis-Skelly; Zubimendi, Rice, Ødegaard; Saka, Gyökeres, Martinelli.
This lineup combines experience with youthful energy, versatility, and elite-level quality—something Arteta has been methodically assembling for several windows. The squad now appears closer than ever to becoming genuine Premier League and Champions League contenders.
Supporters will be watching closely as Arsenal take on Milan. It’s more than a pre-season friendly—it’s the first real glimpse of what this next era of Arteta-ball might look like in full flow.
As excitement builds and new signings slot in, the Gunners are ready to fire on all cylinders. This could be the season Arsenal fans have been waiting for. All eyes now turn to July 23 in Singapore.
Let the dream begin.
