Arsenal is poised to experience one of their most successful seasons in several years, primarily due to Mikel Arteta's remarkable leadership that has fully utilized the abilities of his team.
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| LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 26: Eberechi Eze of Arsenal celebrates scoring his team's first goal with teammates Jurrien Timber, Viktor Gyoekeres and Bukayo Saka during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Crystal Palace at Emirates Stadium on October 26, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images) |
The Gunners have ascended to the top of the Premier League after 22 matches, boasting a seven-point advantage over Manchester City, who is in second place.
During this period, the team has netted 40 goals, placing them second in the league for total goals, with Leandro Trossard and Viktor Gyokeres each contributing five goals.
Nevertheless, it is the strength of their defense that has been particularly impressive this season, having permitted just 14 goals against them, the lowest for any team that has yielded at least 20.
A robust defense is essential for winning championships, and upcoming enhancements to the defensive roster may be in the plans if recent updates hold true.
Arsenal is seeking to sign a Premier League talent to strengthen their center-back roles and has expressed interest in Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, regarded as one of Europe's top young talents.
At present, William Saliba and Gabriel occupy those positions, although conversations have suggested that the French defender could be a potential addition.
However, supporters of the Gunners may find themselves disappointed, as recent reports indicate that Chelsea has entered the fray and may secure the 20-year-old's services this month. Jacquet is not the only defensive player being considered by the club's management, as Tino Livramento of Newcastle United is also a candidate being assessed.
According to information from CaughtOffside, Arteta’s team has a high regard for the 23-year-old right-back, but they are not alone in their interest, the report suggests.
It also states that Manchester City is currently the frontrunner to acquire Livramento, which could lead to competition for his signature. Previous evaluations have suggested that around £60m might be needed to attract him away from St James' Park.
Why Livramento would be a perfect match for Saka at Arsenal In recent years, winger Bukayo Saka has solidified his place as one of the league's top talents, which is evident in his notable statistics in attacking play.
Over the last three seasons, the young English winger has found the back of the net 36 times in the league, often stepping up during crucial moments.
In this season alone, Saka has participated in 20 encounters under Arteta, contributing seven goals – only Trossard has had a greater impact in terms of goal contributions to date.
However, his contributions have decreased compared to the previous season, and the team is in need of someone who can offer him an added advantage.
If Arsenal aims to end their 20-year absence from a league title, Saka must play a vital role in their achievements, and securing an energetic wing-back like Livramento may significantly bolster the offensive dynamics on the right flank.
This transfer would allow him to establish a strong partnership with his fellow countryman, with Livramento’s performance statistics from the current season showcasing his talents with the ball. Livramento has been labeled a probable "future England captain" by Theo Walcott, having succeeded in 42% of his attempted dribbles and creating 0.9 chances per 90 minutes in the Premier League.
These statistics demonstrate his remarkable ability when advancing down the right side, potentially making Saka a chief beneficiary at the Emirates if he becomes part of the team.
He has also maintained a 32% rate of successful crosses, along with a 90% success rate for passing, which further emphasizes his talent for providing opportunities for his teammates.
Nonetheless, due to his defensive duties, the 23-year-old must excel when the ball is not in his possession – a skill he has shown abundantly in the 2025/26 season.
Thus far this season, Livramento has recorded an average of 1.6 tackles per 90 minutes, alongside 5.8 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, placing him in the top 5% of defenders in the league.
The specific fee that Newcastle would demand for the young star remains unclear, but it is evident that he possesses all the essential qualities to become a premier wing-back.
He would undoubtedly be a fantastic asset for Saka in North London, but with interest from rival clubs, Arteta’s side may need to act swiftly to secure his commitment.
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