Mikel Arteta ready to wield the axe in order for Arsenal to win next season

Mikel Arteta has revealed he is ready to make difficult decisions in the transfer market in order to achieve success at Arsenal.

The Gunners have enjoyed an excellent campaign and are hunting their first Premier League trophy in almost 20 years.

However, recent results have gone against them, with Arteta's side picking up just three points from their last four games.

While a 4-1 humbling at Manchester City has left the title in Pep Guardiola's hands, with the reigning champions leap frogging Arsenal into first place over the weekend.

However, with Champions League football guaranteed next season, Arteta will have half an eye on the summer transfer window, as he seeks to add depth to his squad.

Arteta will yield the axe

Arteta has now stressed the importance of making difficult decisions in the market in order to establish a winning mentality.

Speaking in an interview with Sky Sports, Arteta said: "They are always tough decisions.

"Whether it's to recruit, or other decisions. Some players sometimes don't want to continue with us, some staff members.

"It's always tough, especially when you have good relationships with those individuals, but we are here to win."

Just yesterday it was reported that Charlie Patino was expected to leave the Gunners in search of regular first team football.

While Folarin Balogun's future remains uncertain, with the 21-year-old unwilling to play as an understudy to Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah.

In the meantime, Declan Rice has emerged as Arsenal's priority transfer target after turning down multiple contract extensions at the Hammers.

The 24-year-old is thought to be keen on a move to the Emirates. Although Rice, and several other new players' arrivals could mark the end of the road for certain current players.