Takehiro Tomiyasu could be sidelined until Christmas as Arsenal injury fears revealed

Mikel Arteta may need to reconsider his transfer plans following Arsenal's latest injury news.

The Spaniard is thought to be focused on adding two central midfielders and a full-back to his ranks this summer, as he prepares for a busy Champions League schedule next season.

Natural centre-back Ben White has had to fill in at right-back in the absence of the injured Takehiro Tomiyasu, who has been sidelined with a knee injury since March.

However, the latest reports suggest the Japan international could be out until Christmas after undergoing surgery, report The Telegraph.

In turn, Arteta could be forced into the summer transfer market with a view to find cover at full-back, with a number of names rumoured with a move to the Emirates.

Which defenders could Arsenal sign?

Cancelo is allegedly on Arteta's radar, with the 28-year-old's future currently up in the air.

The Portugal international was loaned to Bayern Munich in January, but will return to Manchester City at the end of the season having failed to impress Thomas Tuchel in Germany.

Arsenal are reportedly in the running for his signature, with Arteta, who worked with Cancelo at the Etihad previously, considering a swoop for the defender.

It remains to be seen if Pep Guardiola still has plans for Cancelo in Manchester, with Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji ahead of him in the pecking order.

While the Gunners have also been linked with Real Valladolid right-back Ivan Fresneda, who has impressed in La Liga this season.

The north London side were heavily linked with a move for the 18-year-old in January, but he chose to stay with the Spanish club.

However, he encouraged supporters when he spoke about Arsenal's interest in March.

Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, Fresneda said: "It's a source of pride [Arsenal, Newcastle, Dortmund links] but I always say it: I'm also in a big team, Valladolid.

"My head only thinks about my teams. And these days, also in the Seleccion [Spain national U19 team]."

Topics: Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Football, Premier League

Joe Adams

Joe is a Journalist for SPORTbible with a primary focus on football. He has previously covered a number of other sports including boxing, rugby and F1. Wishes he was born left-footed.

@joeadamsjourno