Arsenal to solve two issues with free transfer 'steal' as Mikel Arteta masterstoke laid bare

Arsenal are back in action this evening when they take on Bolton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup third round.

After holding Manchester City to a 2-2 draw in the Premier League on Sunday, the Gunners can go into tonight's game with the opportunity to rest a number of key players.

"It’s a great opportunity for any player to show what they are doing in the games if they didn’t get the chance to play yet," Arteta said when asked about youngsters being handed a chance.

"To transform what they’ve been doing in training and give us the right reason on the pitch."

In other news, Arsenal continue to be linked with forwards despite the summer transfer being closed. With that being said, football.london brings you the latest news and gossip from the Emirates Stadium.

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Jonathan David transfer considered

Arsenal are reportedly prepared to take the plunge on Jonathan David when his contract at LOSC Lille expires at the end of the season.

David has been on the Gunners' radar for some time but a move has never materialised. He's set to become a free agent next summer and the queue for his services is far from short.

According to Italian outlet Tuttomercatoweb, Arsenal are prepared to compete with several Italian clubs interested in the Canadian forward. David has scored 88 times for the French side since joining from KAA Gent.

football.london says: "Jonathan David is a player I would love to see in the Premier League. His goal record in France has always been impressive so getting him for free would be a steal for Arsenal.

"Lille are expected to fight tooth and nail to extend his stay in France but the prospect of moving to one of the best teams in Europe should be too good to turn down. Capable of playing out wide and centre-forward, Arteta could solve two of his issues with the signing."

Tactics defended by Arteta

Arsenal boss Arteta has insisted that the XI that he selects on Wednesday night against Bolton Wanderers will provide the truth about his players' condition.

The Gunners played out a thrilling 2-2 draw with Man City on Sunday but a number of players have been criticised for going down for treatment at the Etihad Stadium. David Raya, Riccardo Calafiori, Gabriel Martinelli and Jurrien Timber were accused of breaking up the game.

However, Arteta has hit back at claims that his team played the "dark arts" against City. “I always prefer the facts to words or supposing things,” Arteta said.

“Let’s see who is available tomorrow and then we can talk about dark arts or these things or if it’s a reality. Other things will be factors and that’s it. We will use the facts. What are the other factors? Well, if a player is faking something that means he will carry on and be involved in the squad and play. Unfortunately, there will be a few players not available.”

Arteta was asked whether his team had suffered any serious injuries at City. “We have to wait on one of them,” he replied.

football.london says: "The hatred that Arsenal have received for defending a lead at the champions of England with 10-men has been slightly over the top. What else is Arteta meant to do?

"As the Spaniard hinted, the starting XI against Bolton will be different meaning a number of first-team stars will be rested. The last week for the Gunners has been a tough one so it's no surprise that players were going down.

"The period before Christmas is always tough for players. Arteta and his team did what they had to do."