Arsenal are working on strengthening the squad ahead of the second half of the 2026-27 season. The Gunners are the table toppers of the 2026-27 Premier League table, aiming for a second consecutive title. On the other hand, they are placed in 8th place in the Champions League table for the 2026-27 season, which is not bad for a team that made it to the final stage in the previous season. However, coach Mikel Arteta feels that it is not enough. He knows that the team needs some reinforcements in the attacking lineup. Miguel Delaney of Independent reports that the Gunners are searching for quality attackers ahead of the January transfer window. Mikel Arteta wants a stronger, lethal attacking side by January.
The Gunners are already monitoring the performance of some of the potential candidates, among whom Alex Baena leads the race. He is a tactically versatile attacking midfielder who is capable of playing as a central midfielder as well as a left midfielder. The 25-year-old currently plays for Atlético Madrid. Before joining Atlético, he played for Villarreal between 2020 and 2025. In between, he also played for Girona on a year-long loan spell. Apart from the above, Baena has also been part of two historical sides. He was part of the U23 Spanish team that won the gold medal at the men’s football event at the 2024 Paris Olympics. He was also part of the Spanish team that won the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Who wouldn’t love to have such an illustrious guy by their side?
If Baena joins the Gunners by January, this would help them reduce the load on their skipper, Martin Odegaard, to some extent. But what makes Baena so special? Mikel Arteta needs someone who can be effective in tight spaces and carry the ball up the pitch at pace. Baena has that in plenty. He is also a brilliant man when it comes to passes, as well as holding the ball well. Baena can deliver great crosses and take set pieces. Adding him in January would make Arsenal’s attacking lineup only more lethal. Besides, Baena is also a goal-scoring machine, having proved his mettle for Atletico in the 2025-26 La Liga. His performance helped Atletico achieve 4th position in the 2025-26 La Liga. They also made it to the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League, before eventually losing out to Arsenal.
However, there is one obstacle to their plans: Atletico Madrid themselves. The club has firmly refused any mid-season offer or transfer for Baena. The Spanish attacking midfielder has already scored 5 goals and 3 assists in the 2026-27 season, and is being viewed as part of Atletico Madrid’s long-term plans. This is because Baena has a contract with Atletico that expires in the summer of 2030. It would take Arsenal a little more than persuasion if they’re really serious about bringing Baena to the Emirates Stadium by January. Besides, the defending champions wouldn’t rest until they have another Premier League title in their hands. For this, they need good players like Alex Baena by their side.
