Mikel Arteta has admitted the upcoming summer transfer window is "crucial" for Arsenal following an underwhelming season.
The Gunners are currently in mid-table but still have ambitions of qualifying for next season's Champions League through a Europa League triumph.
Arteta's side were beaten 2-1 by Unai Emery's Villarreal in the semi-final first-leg but scored a crucial away goal that will give them hope ahead of next week's decisive fixture.
Even if Arsenal do lift the Europa League trophy, it will go down as a disappointing campaign for the north London club, making the summer transfer window all the more important.
Arteta, speaking to Sky Sports, has highlighted the importance of getting things right off-the-pitch once the season is over.
Asked if it could be the most important summer in years, the Gunners boss replied: "Yes.
“Because a lot of things have happened in the last few transfer windows.
"There are a lot of players in various situations. It’s crucial.
"We want to go to the next level and there are a lot of things we need to do to get there.”
Hector Bellerin is one man being linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium, as well as striker Eddie Nketiah.
Juventus are reportedly interested in the Spanish right-back, who has just over two years remaining on his deal with the club.
Joe Willock, Ainsley Maitland-Niles, Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira's futures are also in doubt, with the Gunners quartet being out on loan this season.
Alexandre Lacazette sees his contract come to its conclusion next summer, so the Frenchman is another player that could be looked at by other clubs.
