At a Glance:
One of the best ways to strengthen a squad cost-effectively is to look for players out of contract in the summer, and this is a method that Arsenal has used to benefit itself in the past.
Players such as Sol Campbell and Jens Lehmann, who both have strong legacies at Arsenal, were signed after their contracts expired at Tottenham and Borussia Dortmund, respectively.
Free transfers do not always work out, with Willian a well-known example of an out-of-contract player struggling when joining the Gunners, but it is always less risky than opting to spend eight- or nine-figure sums on stars who may not pan out.
But who could Arsenal look to sign this summer to help them on their quest for more footballing silverware?
Oscar Mingueza – Celta Vigo
Oscar Mingueza is a name already familiar to Arsenal fans given that the Spaniard was linked to the club back in April, and the 27-year-old has proven that he is an extremely capable centre-back during his time with Celta Vigo.
Having made his name in the Barcelona youth academy, Mingueza has played over 120 domestic games for Celta and has a current market value of £15 milion according to Transfermarkt.
While he is not necessarily a realistic starting option under Mikel Arteta, his experience as a trusted top-flight centre back means he could end up being an ideal option as a fourth or fifth-choice centre-back, as well as being able to play as a right-back too.
Dusan Vlahovic – Juventus
Seemingly a player perpetually linked to Arsenal, Dusan Vlahovic is a physical striker who knows how to score.
The Serbian attacker has scored 68 goals in 168 games with Juventus, and despite an injury-hit 2025/26 season, still managed to net 10 goals in 23 appearances.
While a transfer to Arsenal is not expected, given his similar age and playstyle to Viktor Gyokeres, if presented to Arsenal it could be an opportunity that the club take.
Harry Wilson – Fulham
One of the Premier League’s more surprising breakout stars of last season, at 29, Harry Wilson is no youngster, but could be a reliable option on the wing for Arsenal if they are to get rid of any of their right-wingers.
Ten assists and seven goals for Fulham with a real knack for scoring free kicks and impressive pace, Wilson could be utilised by the Gunners as a late-game substitute if the club shows any interest.
