Lukas Podolski insists Arsenal can mount a sustained assault on the Barclays Premier League title - but whether captain Robin van Persie will lead the challenge remains to be seen.
While Old Trafford appears to be the preferred destination of the Dutchman, Manchester United will have to move closer towards the £20million at which Arsenal appear willing to do business. Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has added experience in the form of German striker Podolski, France forward Olivier Giroud and Spain midfielder Santi Cazorla.
Podolski, 27, maintains this shows Arsenal can be thinking about an attack on the championship and not just securing third or fourth place again, and he said: "The Premier League has five or six teams who can play for the title - and we are one of them. We really want to win this trophy."
He added: "I hope I can score a lot of goals and make some assists to help the club in the Premier League."
If the Gunners are not to slip back to being also-rans again next season, then they will have to tighten up a defence which leaked 49 Premier League goals last term - some 20 more than champions Manchester City.
Laurent Koscielny found himself playing alongside several different central partners last season after injuries again took their toll at the back.
The France defender, 26, recently penned a new long-term deal and intends to do all he can to make the Gunners rearguard a secure unit.
"Now I know the Premier League - I am more mature and more physical," Koscielny told Arsenal Player. "You know I like to be tactical and technical in my position, but I have worked hard to be fitter and stronger.
"Now I want to continue my progression with this club.
"I know I played a good season last year, but I want to do more for Arsenal this year. I want to win a trophy."
Source: PA
