Arsenal Transfer News and Rumours Tracker: Week of October 13

Another week has rolled by, meaning the January transfer window is drawing ever closer.

Arsenal fans will be relieved when the transfer window eventually opens, as it ought to enable them to sign the players they need to give their squad the requisite depth.

Last week, Arsenal suffered another major injury, losing Mesut Ozil until January. His absence is manageable, but if the Gunners lose a defensive player for a similar period, they will be in serious trouble.

Check back on this page over the coming week to track the latest news and rumours surrounding Arsenal's transfer business.

-Last updated: Wednesday, October 15-

Mesut Ozil Refutes Departure Rumours

Paul Gilham/Getty Images

Wednesday, October 15

Mesut Ozil's poor form at Arsenal had led to suggestions he might begin seeking a move away from London.

However, the German international has tweeted to say he intends to be at Arsenal "now and in the future":

"

thanks for your support following my injury. I'll come back on the pitch soon as I can to help #AFC. now and in the future #MiaSanArsenal

— Mesut Özil (@MesutOzil1088) October 13, 2014"

It seems Ozil is not going anywhere in a hurry.

Robert Pires Suggests Sami Khedira Swoop

Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Monday, October 13

Former Arsenal star Robert Pires still regularly trains with the club. Having had the chance to take a close-up look at the squad, he is in little doubt about who the Gunners need to snap up in January. Speaking to Dean Nelson of The Telegraph, Pires said:

"

[Wenger] needs a big player in the middle, like [Patrick] Vieira, strong, tall, because this position is very important for the balance between attack and defence.

The quality is there but you need more, maybe [someone] like Yaya Toure in middle. He reminds me of Patrick Vieira, maybe they have an opportunity with [Sami] Khedira. It is likely in the January window. He played very well with Germany. My advice is if he can buy Khedira he can be the [new] Vieira, more aggression in the middle. He has a lot of experience. When you play in the middle you need experience, especially when your midfield is young like Arsenal's.

"

Arsenal fans will hope Arsene Wenger has given Pires a tip-off about his January intentions.

Arsenal Line Up Tyrone Mings for January Deal

Tony Marshall/Getty Images

Monday, October 13

Arsenal desperately need new recruits to give them strength in depth at the back. According to Chisanga Malata of the Daily Star, Arsene Wenger could be prepared to turn to Ipswich's 21-year-old full-back Tyrone Mings.

However, Ipswich are in no hurry to sell. Manager Mick McCarthy told the same paper:

"

Tyrone has been excellent for us.

Crystal Palace made a big offer for him before the transfer window closed but we want him here for the long term.

"

It seems it will take a sizeable offer from Arsenal for Ipswich to even consider letting their prized asset leave.