It's crazy to think that 51 days remain until the summer transfer window closes, so much has happened already and there is still plenty to be done. Arsenal fall very much under that bracket, bringing in four new faces while remaining active for both incomings and outgoings.
In terms of the business done so far, you get the sense from supporters and club figures that it's been a positive start of what undoubtedly had to be an ambitious window.
One of the main targets has been secured in Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira is an exciting talent, Bernd Leno's replacement is sorted with Matt Turner's arrival and Marquinhos represents a player for the future with big potential.
READ MORE: Gabriel Jesus’ Arsenal transfer mission made clear as Brazilian can help Edu land £60m target
There's no doubt whatsoever that more must be done if Arsenal want to progress from last season and the signs so far certainly point towards there being further movement. In a way, it's a shame to see that there haven't been any more key additions made prior to the club's trip to the States, but unfortunately, not everything can be done in a swift manner.
However, there's definitely been a pattern emerging over the last month and it could prove hugely beneficial. Two Brazilians have already been signed and even more are being looked at. Technical director Edu is said to have played a key role in the deals for Jesus and Marquinhos, but now he is looking to use his South American links again to secure the services of Lyon's Lucas Paqueta.
That's according to GOAL Brasil, who say Edu has informed the player's representatives that Arsenal want to formalise an offer for the 24-year-old, although Lyon's £67m asking price could be a sticking point. Leeds United's Raphinha is another name that was thought to be high up on the shopping list, while Zenit’s defensive midfielder, Wendel is the latest Brazilian player to be linked.
Manager Mikel Arteta is also thought to be playing an important role in bringing new players to the club. The Spaniard knows Jesus very well from his time at Manchester City and the same can be said for Oleksandr Zinchenko who was previously linked with a move this summer.
Additionally, Arteta will have a very strong understanding with the likes of Youri Tielemans and the aforementioned Paqueta, having played as a midfielder at the highest level for many years. He has been there and done it, which can go a long way when coaching these specific players.
Speaking last week, freelance journalist Ben Jacobs said: "From what I understand, Arteta is taking a much more active direct role in this transfer window than in previous ones - he’s calling up players, he’s pitching the club directly, he’s co-selling with Edu."
With a clear plan in place, Edu and Arteta can combine a very influential partnership to sell the Arsenal project to new players. Edu has the market contacts, Arteta has the playing experience and both of them know what it means to represent the club on and off the pitch. It's been a decent start from them this summer, now they must prove that they can finish off the window strongly without falling short.
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