Following a dramatic deadline day, the summer transfer window in the Premier League has finally slammed to a shut. Arsenal were one of the teams who were quite active on the market, notably securing the services of Thomas Partey on the deadline day.
Here, at the 4th Official, we will rate Arsenal’s new signings this summer and whether or not they can help them fight for a top-four finish in the Premier League this season.
Ratings Arsenal’s New Signings This Summer
Thomas Partey: 9/10
Thomas Partey was by far the biggest coup for Arsenal this summer, with the Gunners triggering his €50 million release clause, putting an end to months of speculations.
At Arsenal, the Atletico Madrid star could turn out to be an ideal cog in the double-pivot. He is indeed an all-round midfielder, who can not only distribute possession but is primarily known for his defensive prowess and physical attributes. Those qualities tune in well with the physically astute nature of the Premier League.
It could also combine well with the more technical nature of Dani Ceballos. Also, Partey brings in a lot of experience to the table, making him an expensive yet smart signing for Arsenal this summer.
Gabriel Magalhaes: 10/10
Partey was the marquee signing for Arsenal this summer. But, it is Gabriel Magalhaes who seems to have fitted in effortlessly under Mikel Arteta, following his €30 million move from LOSC Lille.
During these early parts of the campaign, Gabriel has shown a remarkable temperament and has barely looked under pressure. His brilliant range of passing has also added a new dimension to Arsenal’s build-up play.
The Brazilian still needs to work on his communication with fellow defenders. But the early signs suggest that the centre-back could turn out to be an asset for the Gunners for years to come and he might indeed be the answer to the club’s defensive woes.
Runar Alex Runarsson 8/10
The arrival of Runar Alex Runarsson was a crucial element to Arsenal’s rebuilding process, especially following the shock departure of Emiliano Martinez.
The Iceland international might not have proved himself as much as his Argentine counterpart, who is enjoying a stellar start to his career at Aston Villa. Still, he does have the quality to provide cover for Bernd Leno.
One of the most crucial aspects of Runarsson is that he is an international goalkeeper, so even if he is not playing for Arsenal regularly, he can always keep himself occupied at the international stage with Iceland. However, he is not exactly a first-team ‘keeper for his country either.
Overall, for a fee of just €2 million, Arsenal have indeed bagged a bargain with the acquisition of Runarrson.
Willian 5/10
The addition of Willian at Arsenal this summer clearly doesn’t make sense from the club’s perspective.
One could argue that the Chelsea star brings in a lot of experience while joining the club on a free transfer, but his inconsistencies have already been highlighted during these early stages of the campaign.
The Brazilian enjoyed a promising start to his Emirates career, starring in the opening day win over Fulham. Since then, however, Willian has not made any impact and is currently running the risk of being overtaken by Nicolas Pepe in the pecking order.
Considering the fact that Willian is reportedly earning £100k a week salary at Emirates right now, it is fair to point out that Arsenal could have spent that money elsewhere.
