Arsenal’s three forward list revealed as Mikel Arteta plots switch to ‘next Olivier Giroud’ in summer transfer

David Raya – STAY: Initial doubts arose when he replaced Aaron Ramsdale, but he has since proven himself to be a world-class goalkeeper with all the attributes required for Arteta’s way of playing.

Aaron Ramsdale-GO: It’s a shame he was left out for Raya, but he’s now looking for a move to become a regular No. 1 elsewhere, especially with his aspirations of one day starting in goal for England.

Karl Hein – STAY: Ramsdale are unlikely to take second place if the Englishman leaves – but the club cannot afford to lose two goalkeepers in the same window.

William Saliba – STAY: Saliba is one of the best young defenders in the world at the moment, Arteta should be building his team around him. A vital part of the team that has conceded just 29 Prem goals this season.

Ben White – STAY: Another solid member of Arteta’s impressive defense. He has the flexibility to play on the right or as a central defender, but has become a right-back this season.

Gabriel – STAY: He was on the periphery at the start of the campaign, but forced his way back and forged a powerful partnership with Saliba in the middle of the defense. One of Arteta’s most important signings.

Madeira Jurrien – STAY: I’m yet to see the best of the Dutchman after a season marred by injuries, but Arteta sees him as a revolutionary full-back.

Jakub Kiwior – STAY: The Polish international has struggled to separate the duo of Saliba and Gabriel, but impresses when called upon, especially in a spell at left-back.

Cedric – GO: Leaving the club with an expiring contract. I never really convinced Arteta he was trustworthy and he spent most of the season warming the bench.

Takehiro Tomiyasu – STAY: Another flexible and reliable figure that Arteta loves. He can play as a central defender or right-back and is a strong presence at set pieces.

Oleksandr Zinchenko – GO: With Timber in line to be Arteta’s first choice at left-back, it is difficult to see the Ukrainian starting many games for Arsenal next season. A good signing for £35 million, but proved limited defensively.

Thomas Partey – GO: Injury-prone and looked leggy when he finally recovered from the hamstring problems that kept him out from October to March. The contract ends next summer.

Martin Odegaard – STAY: Fantastic captain. A true leader among men at such a young age. The 25-year-old is on course to lift the Prem at Arsenal sooner rather than later.

Emile Smith Rowe – STAY: Sidelined for most of his tenure and struggled to make an impact when called upon, but Arteta still sees something in him. A good squad option, but you get the feeling he’s running out of time to prove to the club that he’s worth continuing.

Jorginho – STAY: Arteta’s experienced general who, more often than not, makes Arsenal play better with him in the team.

Fábio Vieira – GO: It is perhaps difficult to judge him based on just 16 appearances in all competitions this season, but he still looks out of place in English football. A loan change could help.

Mohamed Elneny – GO: Another player leaving with an expiring contract. The right decision for both parties. A good servant from the Arsene Wenger era.

Kai Havertz – STAY: It looks like a bargain now at Chelsea’s £65m after their eventful end to the season. Arteta bought him as a midfielder but now leads as a starting number 9.

Declan Rice – STAY: Arsenal’s most important and influential signing in years. Enough said.

Bukayo Saka – STAY: An invincible star for the club and the country at this moment. It will undoubtedly get even better in the coming seasons.

Gabriel Jesus – STAY: Fighting for a starting spot but now, it would be foolish to let him go given how much he can impact games and his winning mentality within the group.

Gabriel Martinelli – STAY: A dip in form this term, but Arteta has a lot of faith in him. Additional competition with Leandro Trossard will only make him better.

Eddie Nketiah – GO: His career is at a crossroads right now and he needs to leave to change that. His six-figure wages could put off Premier League suitors.

Leandro Trossard – STAY: He can bring his qualities as a starter or as a substitute – a brilliant option to have when chasing a title.

Reiss Nelson – GO: Arteta has often spoken of Nelson’s potential and enjoys having him in the team, but his impact has diminished over the last 12 months.