Arsenal's window: a strong start, but no marquee attacker

Arsenal's summer began with real intent. Christos Tzolis, Bruno Guimarães and Ezri Konsa all arrived, and each addresses a clear need in a squad that finished last season close to the top. Judged on those three signings alone, the window was a good one.

The gap is up front. Arsenal first went after Morgan Rogers, but he moved to Chelsea instead. They then turned to Vinícius Júnior, only to see the Brazilian agree a new contract at Real Madrid. Julián Álvarez also made clear in the final days that he had no intention of leaving Atlético Madrid, which closed off the last realistic route to a senior forward. Arsenal chose not to spend on a lesser name, and they kept their budget in reserve rather than settle.

The club did move on players. Gabriel Jesus joined Barcelona and Ethan Nwaneri went to Borussia Dortmund, so the squad is lighter in attacking options than it was in May. If Gabriel Martinelli completes his expected move to Al-Hilal, which could happen in the coming days while the Saudi Pro League window stays open, the depth behind the first choice shrinks further. A couple of injuries in the forward line would leave Mikel Arteta with few obvious answers.

Across the Premier League, this summer also produced its own records. The British transfer record was equalled, and one club signed no fewer than 18 players, a reminder of how hectic the market became. Arsenal's business looks measured by comparison. Their verdict will depend on whether the squad's balance holds once the season starts and whether the lack of a proven goalscorer costs them points in the months ahead.