Arsenal played with a mostly settled starting XI in the second half of the season, but there is one position of complete uncertainty.
Mikel Arteta found his winning formula as he settled on his attacking trio of Kai Havertz, Leandro Trossard and Bukayo Saka by the end of the season, but there was constant change at left-back for a while.
Oleksandr Zinchenko was the undisputed first-choice last season, to the point where Kieran Tierney departed on loan due to a lack of game time. However, injuries and questionable form meant that alternative options were used.
Takehiro Tomiyasu spent most of the season injured, but came back to start in the run-in and performed well.
Jurrien Timber started the season at left-back, but a long-term injury ruled him out until the final day. Injuries to all three at the same time then meant Jakub Kiwior was used in the position, but despite some impressive performances, he did not do enough to convince and he may now depart in the summer.
Arteta wants a specialist left-back at Arsenal this summer
A report from The Athletic has now revealed that the uncertainty over the left-back position now means that Arteta wants a true upgrade in the area.
“Another position that is in focus is left-back. Arteta had a variety of options in this position during the season just gone, but did not appear particularly convinced by them. The return to fitness of Jurrien Timber provides yet another alternative, but Arsenal are continuing to monitor the market for a specialist,” the report stated.
The potential departure of Kiwior, who has been linked with AC Milan, could make space for a new arrival, as Arteta currently has several options at left-back, but perhaps none are specialist enough for his liking.
What kind of left-back does Mikel Arteta want at Arsenal?
Arteta has had several options available to him over the last two seasons. He had a traditional-style left-back in Tierney, as well as an inverted-midfield hybrid in Zinchenko.
Tomiyasu provides a good balance of the two, and is strong on both feet, but if Arteta sees him as a centre-back or a right-back, or cannot rely on his fitness, then an alternative is necessary.
Timber could be that option as a strong defender who is also comfortable on the ball, but as a right-footed player, it seems likely that he will play in an inverted role.
Arsenal have been linked with Jorrel Hato and Ferdi Kadioglu amongst others, but it remains to be seen whether Arteta will be eager to add another versatile option like the ones he has, or aim to recruit a player whose primary position is left-back.