The star-studded Arsenal XI that Mikel Arteta could field in 2024 if transfer rumours are true

Arsenal continue to lead the way in the Premier League table after a thrilling 4-3 victory over top-flight new boys Luton Town. The Gunners are the pacesetters in the division and they are in pole position to once again top the table at Christmas for just the second time since 2008 after last season’s narrow title miss.

Arsenal were pipped to the league by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City last season and it is likely that Mikel Arteta will look to add more quality to his team to avoid a repeat of last season’s collapse.

A host of big name signings have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium in recent months, but what is Arsenal’s most likely starting XI for the second half of the season if all the transfer rumours are true? We take a look

Arsenal’s potential starting XI if rumours are true

Goalkeeper: David Raya

In truth, one of the hardest positions to predict in the entire Arsenal lineup is the goalkeeping position and Mikel Arteta has regularly switched both David Raya and Aaron Ramsdale on several occasions this term. Raya is likely to remain on the books at Arsenal until at least the end of his loan deal from Brentford. Meanwhile, Ramsdale, who has started less games, is reportedly considering his future, according to some reports.

Right back: Ben White

Arsenal fans are no closer to knowing the return date of their summer signing Jurrien Timber, meaning it is likely that Ben White will continue to be the undisputed right back option. The ex-Brighton man has started 12 of his side’s 15 games and has rarely been absent from the lineup in recent seasons.

Centre back: William Saliba

William Saliba is quickly establishing himself as one of the best central defenders in the Premier League and has played every minute of every game this season.

His absence at the end of last season directly coincided with a downturn in results and performances and they will hope to keep him fit for the final run in this time out.

Centre back: Gabriel Magalhães

Arsenal have been linked with a move for youngster Ousmane Diomande after his excellent performances for Sporting CP, but it is hard to see anyone breaking up the partnership of Gabriel and Saliba unless injury comes into play.

Left back: Oleksandr Zinchenko

Takehiro Tomiyasu’s calf injury has resulted in Jakub Kiwour’s opportunity in the Arsenal team.

However, when everyone is fit and available you would expect Oleksandr Zinechenko to be the first choice starter given his title experience.

Centre midfield: Douglas Luiz

Arsenal have had their eyes on Douglas Luiz for a number of years and his game continues to excel at Aston Villa under the guidance of Unai Emery.

The Brazilian won’t come cheap if he arrives in January, but could serve as the perfect midfield pivot to Declan Rice.

Centre midfield: Declan Rice

A £105m player is unlikely to find themselves on the bench, particularly when they are producing the performances of Declan Rice this season.

The ex-West Ham man has been one of the standout players of the year so far and he bagged a crucial winner last time out against Luton.

Centre midfield: Martin Odegaard

Club captain Martin Odegaard is the final piece of a mouthwatering midfield trio for the Gunners if they are to land Luiz.

The Norwegian was one of the best performers in the league last season and continues to show great quality with four goals and three assists, thus far.

Right winger: Bukayo Saka

Arsenal’s golden boy Bukayo Saka is now viewed as one of the most exciting attackers in the entire Premier league and his five goals and eight assists show why he is such an asset to both the Gunners and England.

Striker: Ivan Toney

Dusan Vlahovic and Ollie Watkins have all been linked, but the dream target for many Arsenal fans appears to be Brentford talisman Ivan Toney.

The England international returns in January after his betting-related suspension and could be available for around £70m.

The Bees are keen to keep hold of their talisman, although he did previously hint at an Arsenal move during an interview with Diary of Ceo host Steven Bartlett.

Left winger: Gabriel Martinelli

Brazilian winger Gabriel Martinelli was another catalyst in last season’s title push. He could face competition from Leandro Trossard during the second half of the year.

But his form from last term still suggest he will be crucial in the run-in this season.