Arsenal have certainly operated like a club that are sick of their ’bridesmaid’ tag this summer.
The Gunners were distant challengers to Liverpool last season, but nonetheless earned their third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League. It was a campaign of domestic regression but continental improvement, with injuries ultimately compromising their charge on multiple fronts.
The appointment of Andrea Berta as sporting director ignited hope that this summer would be a big one, and the Italian has so far appeased supporters by aiding an expensive transfer window. Only Liverpool have spent more than the perennial contenders, and Arsenal may not yet be done on the incomings front with the deadline inching closer.
However, the Gunners also have other priorities before the window slams shut.
