For Arsenal it is hard to find any winger who would bring the excitement levels as well as the elite numbers that Vinicius Jr can. So what other options do the club and sporting director Andrea Berta have? Arsenal signed Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge to replace the outgoing Leandro Trossard, with the 24-year-old producing a remarkable 22 goals and 29 assists last season. Replicating those numbers is unlikely but the Greek international has looked bright during pre-season.

Arsenal have explored a move for PSG's Bradley Barcola, but Liverpool are also interested and PSG demand over £100m. Morgan Rogers moved to Chelsea for £117m after Arsenal refused to go above £80m. Kenan Yildiz is on Arsenal's list; the 21-year-old had an impressive 2025-26 season for Juventus (11 goals, 10 assists). Opta stats show only Bruno Fernandes (98) and Romano Schmid (77) created more open-play chances than Yildiz in Europe's top five leagues. However, Yildiz just signed a new four-year deal and Juventus are unwilling to sell.

Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao) has a contract until 2035 but reportedly a release clause. He completed 43.8% of his 153 dribbles last season, though injury disrupted his campaign. Availability is key for Arteta, and with a high price tag, this may not be the move. Defensively, Arsenal are interested in Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa (valued at £60m) and Tottenham's Cristian Romero, though any deal for Romero seems unlikely.