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Elliott Jackson & Tashan Deniran-Alleyne & Aidan McCartney

Pundit reveals what Arsenal and Unai Emery must do in January to seal Champions League return

Arsenal can challenge for a top four spot this season, as long as they strengthen in the January transfer window.

That's according to Kevin Phillips - a lifelong Gunners supporter and ex-Premier League striker.

The north London outfit were extremely busy in the summer window, signing no less than six players which included smashing their transfer record to bring in Nicolas Pepe from Lille for £72m.

They also brought in David Luiz from Chelsea, Kieran Tierney from Celtic, signed Dani Ceballos on a season-long loan deal from Real Madrid whilst also looking to the future with deals for Gabriel Martinelli and William Saliba.

But will those additions be enough to seal a return to the Champions League in 2020/21 via their league position?

Speaking on Sky Sports' 'The Debate' show, Phillips thinks it's possible, although he thinks Arsenal are still a couple of players short despite a mini summer overhaul of the squad.

"I think so," Phillips responded when asked if the Gunners can challenge for a top four spot. "It's progression.

"In January they might add again if what we're hearing is true there might be money available. Go and get that defensive midfielder, go and get that powerhouse centre-half, make yourself challengers.

"In terms of the title, I really don't see anyone challenging City or Liverpool for a bit. I think progression for Arsenal is getting in the top four."

Phillips has also revealed that he's looking forward to watching Arsenal after years of being a frustrated supporter.

"Being an Arsenal fan since I was a young kid, I've been frustrated over the years as have many fans," he added. "Moved into the new stadium, what we expected then was an influx of top world-class footballers, instead of going to your Manchester City, Uniteds and Chelseas.

"Yes, they've had good players but they've always known in the background, the Kronkes have got the money. They're one of the wealthiest people in the Premier League.

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"Why have they never piled that money into the playing side of it and given Wenger hundreds of millions to spend? Don't get me wrong, he's given him money over the years, we're kind of seeing it now with the signing of Pepe, Aubameyang and Lacazette in the club.

"I'm excited this year watching Arsenal, seeing how they fare. I think it's going to be a three-way horse for fourth, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal.

"I actually tipped them at the start of the season, I don't know why.

"I just like the front three. I can just see them playing together like Martial, Rashford, Lingard, James. It's going to be a fascinating season to see how they fare."

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