"We need players as quick as possible" - Mikel Arteta urges Arsenal board to sign players in January

Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, plans to sign players in January "as quickly as possible" in preparation for a tough race for the Premier League title.

Concerns have been raised about the Gunners' squad depth as the season progresses, particularly after star striker Gabriel Jesus suffered a knee injury at the World Cup.

 The Gunners had a fantastic start to the season and are currently five points ahead of the leaders at the top of the league.

They have been vigorously connected with Shkahtar Donetsk forward Mykhalo Mudryk, however may have to get various players assuming they are to keep on trying for prizes.

According to the Arsenal's boss, "We knew the importance of getting players early in the summer and that is the same we want to do in January.

'This is idealistic. Sometimes it is not realistic. But obviously, if you ask my opinion, [we need players] as quick as possible, we want the players in to get settled.'

Arteta has been keen to emphasize the significance of immediately strengthening his team. 

Mikel Arteta added: 'We can get a striker I can guarantee you that. But what we can not afford to do is get a player here that is not for us.

'We don't need a body, we need players that make the team better. I think personalities that have the mentality that we want to win.

'We are very aligned with the players we are looking for. Whether they are possible or affordable, the timing of it, depends on so many things that are out of my control. The theory says that it is a very tricky window.'

Meanwhile, Arsenal have extended their lead at the top of the Premier League table after 3-1 win over West Ham in their Boxing day Fixture. 

Second half equaliser from Bukayo Saka to cancel Said Benrahma early penalty made it 1-1.

Then, Gabriel Martinelli made it 2-1 with a near post finish pass West Ham goalkeeper before Eddie Nketiah scored the third.