The season may have over, but the summer of transfer frenzy has already begun. In reality, it began some time ago, with ties to the Gunners popping up from the moment the January market closed. With Arsenal finishing just two points behind Manchester City this season, the necessity to strengthen is obvious to everyone.

However, upgrading a starting XI that has won more Premier League games than any previous Arsenal team, scored more goals and conceded fewer than any other club in the league this season, and conceded fewer than Mikel Arteta’s side did last season, is a difficult task. However, the depth and rivalry in specific areas can be taken seriously.

The team wants to bring in players for three crucial positions: centre-forward, central midfield, and defence, with a preference for the left side. With that in mind, football.london examines the top three prospects for those jobs.

Benjamin Sesko

Up top is likely where supporters are most excited, as Benjamin Sesko appears to be the outstanding choice among a handful of options. According to football.london, Viktor Gyokeres is another player the club is interested in, as is compatriot Alexander Isak, though a transfer for the Newcastle forward is unlikely at this time.

At the age of 20, Sesko provides Arsenal with immediate talent, as evidenced by his form for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, as well as potential, which could see him progressively establish himself as the Gunners’ main No.9 alongside Kai Havertz. His €65 million (£55.6 million) release clause simplifies the bargaining process, but the German club is already considering a renewal, so Arsenal may need to act quickly. The European Championships present a minor stumbling barrier for an early contract, as the striker joins the Slovenian side.

Bruno Guimarães

The midfield is possibly the area where Arsenal’s targets are least clear. There have been linked to other choices, but the priority remains uncertain, particularly as interest in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi has waned. Bruno Guimaraes is the obvious contender in terms of quality, and Arsenal’s interest is well documented from his time in Brazil and France before moving to Newcastle.

Arsenal has a £100 million release clause, but they would prefer to see a deal done for less as they look to complete their dream midfield with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard. Whether that is possible remains to be seen, as Newcastle manager Eddie Howe has emphasised his importance to the team. Other names that have emerged are Youssouf Fofana, Joao Neves, and Amadou Onana.

Jorrel Hato

Jorrel Hato, a young Ajax star, is the club’s top defensive target. Arsenal, who signed a new contract with no release clause in the January transfer window, will be aware that any potential trade could be difficult, although they do have solid links with the Dutch team following the pursuits of Lisandro Martinez and Jurrien Timber.

With Timber replacing Ben White at right-back on Sunday and telling that he is unsure of his specific role, the left side remains an area in need of more consistency and assurance, especially with Oleksandr Zinchenko uncertain of his future with the club; a player of Hato’s age and talent could be ideal.