Transfer Deadline Day 2026: Have Arsenal's rivals done enough in window to challenge?
As the 2026 summer transfer window closes, Arsenal remains the team to beat in the Premier League after a strong start to the season. While the club had a quiet deadline day, rivals have spent heavily to challenge their dominance.
Why it matters
The transfer window is a critical period for professional football clubs to adjust their squads, directly impacting the competitive landscape of the league.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Ezri Konsa (right) was Arsenal's last summer signing
Chief football writer Published 2 September 2026, 07:12 BST Arsenal have started the new Premier League season with two wins as the transfer window closes, looking in ominous shape to retain the crown they won for the first time in 22 years last season.
The Gunners had a quiet final day to the window having concluded their business before the traditional late rush – but those hoping to unseat the reigning champions have all been busy expensively re-shaping their squads to mount a challenge.
So how do Arsenal look? And have their main rivals done enough to prevent Mikel Arteta's side winning a second successive title?
And what are the other big issues as the Premier League's transfer business was concluded until January?
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