Another transfer window has closed and Arsenal failed to strengthen their first-team squad for the crucial run-in towards their Premier League title charge. While business was conducted, the Gunners must make do with their existing personnel. Mikel Merino’s foot injury sparked alarm and prompted Arsenal to explore late options for additional cover. Their hunt for suitable reinforcement ultimately proved fruitless, though.

Speaking on Monday, Mikel Arteta admitted the club had been active in the market but recognised that securing a deal wasn’t guaranteed. “We need to do everything that we possibly can to see if we have a player that is available. And if we don’t, we keep what we have,” he said.

“At this level, especially for four months, you have to be a player that has the capacity to adapt immediately and impact the team. That’s not easy. But if it were easy, we wouldn’t be here. So, we need to find solutions and try.”

With that in mind, we examine some of the latest Arsenal developments.

Sandro Tonali’s agent has strongly refuted claims of offering the Newcastle midfielder to Arsenal on transfer deadline day to address the Gunners’ midfield concerns. The Italian was momentarily linked with a sensational switch to the Emirates on deadline day.

Tonali commands significant respect from Arsenal, yet both clubs dismissed the possibility before reports emerged suggesting Arsenal had been presented with the opportunity to secure his signature by the Italian’s representatives. However, Tonali’s agent, Giuseppe Riso, has now spoken to Sky Italia in a bid to set the record straight.

“We never had any conversation with Arsenal,” Riso said.

“Newcastle were never gonna let Tonali leave in January. There’s absolutely nothing into it. We didn’t even talk about it.”

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Late deadline day confirmation

Arsenal left it until the 11th hour to officially confirm the signing of Evan Mooney from Scottish Premiership side St Mirren on Monday evening. The announcement came after the transfer window had closed, but the 18-year-old has arrived and is set to join the club’s academy structure.

It is believed Mooney has moved to the club for an initial £400,000 fee, with a further £400,000 in performance-related bonuses, and an undisclosed sell-on clause.

Confirming the move, Arsenal said: “Everyone at Arsenal would like to congratulate Evan and welcome him to the club.”

Gunners secure defensive addition

Slightly earlier in the day, the Gunners brought in another young prospect on deadline day. The Premier League leaders struck a deal to bring in centre-back Jaden Dixon from Stoke City for approximately £500,000.

The 18-year-old arrives as a highly-rated prospect, with Arsenal having fended off numerous rival clubs to complete the transfer.

Dixon made his Championship bow last season and is a right-footed defender who can also operate at right-back.