Arsenal have made a big transfer mistake despite spending over £150m

Mikel Arteta’s squad has received a significant boost by the arrival of six new players this summer. Arsenal’s transfer activity this time put them at the top of the Premier League for spending.

Arsenal’s transfers have been subject to criticism however, one glaring mistake has been made and it will leave Arteta in regret.

Arsenal have made a mistake not to sign another central midfielder, leaving the team with limited options in that position.

Albert Sambi Lokonga was signed from Anderlecht as the only central midfielder despite offloading Lucas Torreira, Joe Willock, Matteo Guendouzi and Dani Ceballos.

Sambi Lokonga has impressed and earned himself a place in the starting eleven. (Photo by David Price/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The Gunners were linked with several central midfielders most notably Yves Bissouma and Manuel Locatelli however, Granit Xhaka’s shocking decision to stay and sign a new contract saw Arsenal’s interest disappear.

Thomas Partey has been prone to injuries since his move to north London while Granit Xhaka is a wildcard. Last Saturday was not the last time we’ll see Xhaka getting sent off, he is bound to accumulate yellow cards and get match suspensions.

Thomas Partey’s Arsenal career has been hindered by constant injuries. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

Arsenal have now had six players that have unfortunately contracted COVID-19 the latest being Granit Xhaka on top of his suspension.

In addition Arsenal will be without Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny for 4-6 weeks as they will leave for the Africa Cup of Nations taking place from 9 January to 2 February.

For close to six weeks Arsenal will have Granit Xhaka and the young Sambi Lokonga as the only recognised central midfield options.

Of course if things get bad Arteta can utilize the unsettled Maitland-Niles or Calum Chambers since they have played in the middle of the park in their careers or possibly give a chance to a promising kid from the academy.

The decision not to sign a quality holding midfielder will surely leave Arteta in regret as the position is crucial to a teams performance.