Arsenal are approaching a hectic period that could set the tone in the Premier League title race. The Gunners are preparing to face Everton this weekend in the first of four games over 10 days.

Mikel Arteta's side have a two-point lead at the top of the table but will be eager to produce a statement performance after scraping by Wolves last time out. Manchester City are once again waiting for Arsenal to slip up, while Aston Villa are only a point further back.

The next few weeks may be the ultimate test of the club’s title credentials, having already been impacted by injuries. Here, Mirror Football takes a look at some of the latest headlines surrounding the Gunners.

While there will be a clamour for Arsenal to make major signings in the January transfer window to bolster their title challenge, the club have been linked with a long-term prospect. Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport has reported that Arteta’s side are very interested in AC Milan starlet Lorenzo Torriani.

The 20-year-old goalkeeper is a highly-rated academy prospect who has made two first appearances for Milan. Torriani entered Arsenal’s radar with an eye-catching display against the Gunners in a friendly this summer, where he saved three penalties.

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The young shot-stopper has spent the campaign with Milan’s U23 side, though the Italian club are considering how he can best prepare for a first team breakthrough. He is reportedly expected to remain at the San Siro in January but may potentially gain experience on loan in Serie B.

Milan are beginning to plan for life after Mike Maignan as he approaches the end of his contract. However, Arsenal could disrupt their strategy with a move for Torriani.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta believes Arsenal have reached new heights following the club’s transfer business in the summer. The manager is hoping that Arsenal’s enviable squad depth could finally see the club end their wait for a Premier League title.

“We’ve gone to another level this season," Arteta told TNT Sports. "Last season, at times, we had 13 or 14 outfield players competing [for places].

"It’s not enough, and we’ve gone and increased the numbers and certainly the quality and, within that, the versatility of this team. We’ve added pieces we didn't have that can complement each other in a really powerful way, and they have adapted really well."

Reflecting on Arsenal’s near-misses during his tenure, Arteta praised the levels his side reached in the 2023/24 campaign, while last season the Gunners were hampered by injuries at a crucial point.

"So almost everything has to be perfect in this league to give yourself the chance to win it,” Arteta continued. "And now this season, again, we're producing very, very strong numbers in all departments, and we need to continue to go for another six months."

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