With the January transfer window nearing its close, Arsenal are balancing immediate needs with longer-term squad planning. With Arsenal looking to find success in the second half of the season, club officials are also looking toward their long-term future.

Arsenal on Tuesday announced two academy starlets had signed their first professional contracts with the club. Versatile midfielder Ife Ibrahim, who joined the Gunners aged seven, signed his first senior contract surrounded by family and friends.

Towards the end of last year, Mikel Arteta said Arsenal would be “actively looking” at potential signings in the January transfer window as they looked to build on their superb start to the season.

Sports Mole provides the lowdown on Arsenal-linked midfielder Breno Bidon, taking an in-depth look at the 20-year-old's background, style of play and an overall transfer verdict.

Gary Lineker has dropped a major hint that Arsenal could land Julian Alvarez this summer, revealing that the striker is unhappy at Atletico Madrid. The former Match of the Day host believes the World Cup winner would be a "game over" signing for Mikel Arteta’s side,

Arsenal are believed to be weighing up a blockbuster move for Julian Alvarez, who has scored seven league goals for Atletico Madrid since the start of the campaign. Barcelona have also been credited with a desire to land the former Manchester City striker, but their financial troubles could give Arsenal a free run at his signature.

Arsenal have confirmed that Ethan Nwaneri has joined Olympique de Marseille on loan until the end of the season.Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty ImagesThough Marseille themselves are still yet to announce

The report states that the 23-year-old is 'homesick', hence being keen on a return to his roots. Although the sticking point is Palmer's contract at Stamford Bridge runs until 2033. Arsenal and Manchester United could do battle over the signing of Rafael Belinho, reports claim.

Arsenal are interested in signing Victor Valdepenas from Real Madrid. Valdepenas made his senior debut for the LaLiga giants this season. According to BBC

This superstar-in-the-making could have ended up at Arsenal this month.

Arsenal have been told to make a move for Newcastle United star Anthony Gordon, but this transfer now surely has no chance of