Mikel Arteta addresses Arsenal's 'new' injury concerns, Ivan Toney answers big transfer questions

Mikel Arteta will have learned a lot from Arsenal's 2-1 win over Brentford at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday night. Kai Havertz and Declan Rice were on target for the hosts, Ioan Wissa canceling out the latter's opener and the German international scored in the final minutes to secure the valuable three points.

The Gunners currently sit top of the Premier League table as Liverpool and Manchester City do not play until this afternoon. Arteta made two changes to his starting XI, replacing Gabriel Martinelli with Leandro Trossard after missing the game against Sheffield United earlier this week. David Raya was ineligible to play in the match against his parent club, so Aaron Ramsdale took his place.

Ahead of the match against Porto, a key update has emerged for Martinelli, with a big return adding to the depth of Arteta's squad. Gabriel Jesus also played 20 minutes as he works his way back from a knee injury, but with Havertz playing in a more central role, he is unlikely to return to the starting lineup any time soon.

As a result, Gunners transfer target Ivan Toney is unlikely to be able to fill the void as they aim to sign a striker who is expected to strengthen over the summer. With that in mind, football.london We've compiled the latest information on Arsenal's injuries, transfer rumors, and general club news.

Martinelli injury concerns grow

Martinelli had just picked up a minor injury against Sheffield United and it looked as if it was just a precautionary measure, but that may not be the case. Football.london spotted the Brazil international on crutches as he made his way through the 'mixed zone' after the win against Brentford.

Martinelli is a major injury doubt for Arsenal with their Champions League game against Porto just days away.

Read more: Arsenal vs Brentford player ratings, Rice excels, Ramsdale recovers from nightmare

Read more: How Arsenal's David Raya and Mikel Arteta reacted after Aaron Ramsdale's blunder against Brentford

football.london say: “Martinelli's absence in the European matches will be a big blow for Trossard, who is expected to be his replacement. The Belgian international is perfectly capable in this position given his versatility, but both in attack and midfield. It is much better to take a central role in

“With Porto in the lead, it is certain that Arsenal will be forced to break down a low block, and without Martinelli it will no doubt become even more difficult. In the big game, Martinelli stepped up, so his absence was clearly going to be a setback.

“Nevertheless, after that game Arsenal will not return to action until the end of March when they face title rivals Man City, with Martinelli also likely to return.”

Tony fails transfer audition

Following his goal at the Emirates Stadium last season, Toney has another chance to prove he is the striker Arsenal should sign. Napoli's Victor Osimhen is another option for Arteta and Edu, with both strikers expected to move on in the summer.

Despite Gabriel Magalhães receiving a yellow card from the start of the match, the Brazilian dominated in a physical battle with Toni. William Saliba also left Tony on deck with a solid shoulder barge, drawing a huge cheer from the home fans.

football.london say: “Tony has scored a number of goals since returning from an eight-month suspension in January, but has failed to make a lasting impact in some games. As a result of the fight, Tony achieved minimal success at the expense of his attacking partner Wissa achieving his goal.

“Given Tony's high asking price of almost £80m, it seems unlikely that Arsenal would pay that amount, especially given the options at Arteta's disposal. Havertz has made a huge impression in the role. Trossard is also an option while Jesus is out injured. “