Arsenal have already begun their activity in the January transfer window, with Ainsley Maitland-Niles joining Roma on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
That departure has exacerbated the lack of depth within the Gunners midfield, leading Arteta to confirm the club are looking to sign a player in this area.
A number of names have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium but there's likely to be significant battles ahead.
Last month, it was reported that Arsenal had been offered the services of Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo but Gianluca Di Marzio now states there's significant competition in the hunt.
The Brazilian has reportedly also been offered to Sevilla and Roma, with their now being 'several offers' as the former Barcelona man is being 'courted by several clubs in Europe'.
Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid have joined the hunt for Arsenal defender Cedric Soares as he considers his future, talkSPORT states.
The summer signing, who initially joined on loan 12 months ago, is frustrated with his lack of opportunities at the Emirates Stadium this season.
Atletico are said to view Cedric as the ideal replacement for Kieran Trippier, who completed a move to Newcastle United this week.
Finally, Arsenal are said to still be keen on landing Empoli's 18-year-old midfielder Samuele Ricci, according to Gazzetta Dello Sport via Sport Witness.
The teenager is likened as a 'little Jorginho' and is said to have numerous suitors from the Premier League, including that of Arsenal.
