A Wayne Rooney-inspired Manchester United brutally exposed the weaknesses of Arsene Wenger's men at Old Trafford in an 8-2 demolition, which equalled the goals conceded to Loughborough Town in 1896.
The sales of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri, a lack of replacements and woeful on-field performances have left Wenger battling a monumental crisis and the morale of all associated with the club appears shattered amid a failed transfer policy.
Arsenal's French manager has been urged to spend the money generated from the exits of Fabregas and Nasri, but has only really failed in tentative initial bids for Everton's Phil Jagielka and Bolton's Gary Cahill.
The seemingly imminent £3million arrival of Park Chu-Young is also less-than-inspiring, while the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Carl Jenkinson are obviously players for the future.
Here we consider five players who Wenger should abandon his stubborn policy in order to buy and provide his squad with the backbone that has been ripped from Emirates Stadium.
Phil Jagielka
While speculation seems to suggest Cahill is Arsenal's No.1 defensive target, the Everton man would be a better option. Cahill is more comfortable on the ball and would likely adapt to Wenger's passing style. But it is nothing new to say the Gunners are in dire need of a return to the likes of no-nonsense defenders such as Martin Keown. Jagielka has already been the subject of a failed £12m bid, however, Arsenal should be prepared to make a renewed offer to a cash-strapped Everton, who could be prepared to deal before deadline day. Jagielka is quick, mobile and powerful. An English centre-back would also be a welcome addition to bring the communication and dominance that was so evidently lacking against United.
Arsenal lacking depth
Scott Parker
The West Ham midfielder seems to be on the brink of joining Arsenal's North London rivals, Tottenham, which is an inexcusable mistake from Wenger. Parker would bring the tenacious determination, motivation and experience which Arsenal have lacked in the centre of midfield. Parker's 30 years are undoubtedly a factor which will deter Wenger, who of course favours a youth policy. But he would offer a vitally assuring presence to the midfield. Parker would also prove influential on the development of Jack Wilshere, who would be allowed to express himself at his creative best in the absence of former captain Cesc Fabregas. Having England's central midfield partnership at the Emirates would also be hugely beneficial.
Eden Hazard
Here Arsenal can afford to look for a lively spark of imagination. The Belgian has been a target for several months and would be vital as a replacement for Nasri. Reports suggest a £35m bid is set to be submitted to French champions Lille in the early stages of this week and Wenger has confirmed he is looking for a midfielder. At just 20 years of age, Hazard ticks every box for Wenger - young, creative and full of potential. The Arsenal boss knows the French market well. Whether dribbling or picking a pass, Hazard is considered one of the brightest prospects in world football and, although he plays on the wing, he could operate in a central role. Reuniting Hazard with former Lille team-mate Gervinho after their title-winning campaign last season is also an exciting prospect.
Eljero Elia
The Hamburg winger is understood to be a target and a cash offer is being prepared in an attempt to end Juventus' attempts to sign the Holland international on a season-long loan. Elia is a box of tricks and could fill the wide areas, with Hazard pushed into a central position. The 24-year-old has the experience of having played in a World Cup final. A stumbling block for Arsenal could be the fact Elia has three years left on his contract in Germany, meaning Hamburg are under no pressure to sell. But player-power, the lure of the Premier League and working alongside compatriot Robin van Persie may be decisive. Elia and Hazard could take the roles of Andrey Arshavin and Tomas Rosicky, who have been major disappointments.
Papiss Demba Cisse
The Freiburg striker is clearly desperate for a move to the Premier League and has been delivering none-too-subtle messages for the past year. He is a goal-getter in the mould of an in-form Darren Bent and last season scored 22 Bundesliga goals, while four have already been netted in the current campaign. Cisse is believed to be valued at £13.5m by Freiburg and the club have claimed three foreign clubs have made bids, with Sunderland and Tottenham rumoured as long-term admirers. Arsenal could do a lot worse than entering the race for the 26-year-old Senegal international.
Who should Arsenal sign before the transfer deadline?
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