Arsenal transfer plans unchanged for Arteta despite another blow

Mikel Arteta says Arsenal's transfer plans for the new year have not changed despite their injuries, after Reiss Nelson became the latest player to suffer a blow.

The winger was sent off in a 2-0 friendly loss to Juventus on Saturday with an apparent hamstring problem, as the sides accelerate their return to action after the break. the World Cup.

Gabriel Jesus is set to be sidelined after undergoing surgery for an injury sustained while on assignment in Brazil in Qatar, the number of options available for Arteta is shrinking.

But the Spaniard claims his plans have not been changed before the January transfer window, adding that he intends to wait for a new prognosis for Nelson.

"We don't know the extent of the injury," Arteta said. "The fact that he had to leave the pitch immediately is not good news, especially for someone who is really powerful and fast like Reiss.

"Let's see what happens. We know what we need to do and that doesn't change the plans."

Nelson's injury is a blow to a Gunners side already lacking Jesus, limiting their wide attacking group as they prepare to restart their Premier League season.

Eddie Nketiah will likely be offered his first extended Premier League minutes since the end of last season, having been limited to a role on the bench this campaign.

“Eddie is always ready,” Arteta said. "He knows that [other people's injuries] are giving him a big opportunity right now and he has to take it.

"But the way he trains every day and the mentality he has, he doesn't give us any reason to believe he won't be super ready to perform."

Arsenal are five points clear of the summit in their quest for a first-flight title since the 2003-04 season, during the Invincibles era under Arsene Wenger.