Arsenal dream XI after Viktor Gyokeres and Martin Zubimendi transfers and one key exit

It was rather apt after the reports regarding Martin Zubimendi to start the weekend that Arsenal ended it playing Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Nine months have now passed since the Spain international turned down a move to the hosts. Zubimendi looks increasingly likely to be an Arsenal player by the time last summer's saga reaches its first anniversary in August.

Another arrival from the Iberian Peninsula that appears more and more probable is Viktor Gyokeres. In light of those two potential signings and possible departures this summer, here is how Mikel Arteta could line up the team next season:

Arsenal have kept just six clean sheets in their last 29 matches across all competitions since the start of this year. However, there is no doubt that David Raya will remain first-choice next season despite the expectation that a backup goalkeeper, with Joan Garcia seemingly the most likely option, will arrive.

The defence also picks itself, with Gabriel Magalhaes still an undisputed starter and aiming to be available again for the start of next season. William Saliba has also spoken about wanting to stay as contract talks continue amid links to Real Madrid.

Myles Lewis-Skelly has also made the left-back position his own. However, a fully fit Riccardo Calafiori could change that next term.

Ben White, equally, may usurp Jurrien Timber on the right. But, for now, both incumbents appear set to hold onto their places.

As will Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard in midfield. Thomas Partey, though, appears unlikely to be playing behind them should a move for Zubimendi materialise.

With the soon-to-turn 32-year-old out of contract at the end of June, an exit now appears likeliest, alongside Jorginho, who is in the same situation, with a transfer to Flamengo seemingly most probable. Further forward, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli would surely flank Gyokeres, barring someone like Nico Williams also signing.

Arsenal dream XI for the 2025/26 season: Raya; Timber, Gabriel, Saliba, Lewis-Skelly; Odegaard, Zubimendi, Rice; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.

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