Emmanuel Petit has named three players Arsenal should sell this summer

Former Arsenal midfielder Emmanuel Petit has urged Mikel Arteta to offload three first-team players as the Gunners prepare to defend their Premier League title.

Three players Arsenal should sell immediately, according to Emmanuel Petit

Arsenal ended a 22-year wait for the league trophy last season, and the club’s hierarchy believes sustained success is within reach. However, Arteta acknowledges that another strong transfer window is crucial.

Petit, speaking to talkSPORT, believes Arsenal need powerful and technically skilled wingers. But before making new signings, he insists the club must show several players the exit door.

The Frenchman wants Arsenal to sell Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Noni Madueke this summer.

Petit doubts Madueke is “good enough” for the Gunners, despite the £52m winger joining from Chelsea last year and playing a part in the title-winning campaign.

Brazilian duo Martinelli and Jesus played reduced roles last season, and reports suggest Arsenal would consider offers for both players.

However, Petit has urged Arteta to keep hold of Leandro Trossard. The 31-year-old Belgian has attracted interest from Besiktas and several Premier League clubs, but Petit believes he deserves to stay.

“I would keep him,” Petit said of Trossard, while adding that Arsenal need a striker with pace, technical ability and intelligent movement.

Arsenal vice-chair Josh Kroenke has already outlined the club’s summer plans. “The business never stops,” he said.

“Other teams are trying to strengthen and come at us. We’ve had conversations about different areas where we can improve on and off the pitch.”

Significant funds will be available for Arteta, who wants to sign a striker, left-winger, central midfielder and right-back.

A blockbuster move for Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez appears unlikely after the Spanish club rejected a £129m bid from Real Madrid.

Petit concluded: “We definitely need wingers and probably one striker. We need to improve up front.”