Despite allowing five first-team players to leave, including former club captain Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the north Londoners failed to bring in any new faces during the winter window.
Venkatesham admits Arsenal were active in the market but elected not to take a risk despite failing to add to Mikel Arteta’s roster in a key run-up as they vie for a top-four finish – and promised additional player investment in the summer.
Both permanent and loan agreements were explored in terms of potential incomings into Arteta’s team, according to Ventakesham. But a player who could make the difference was unavailable.
According to Arsenal fans in attendance at the conference, despite a striker shortage at the Emirates Stadium, the club’s CEO acknowledges the club is satisfied with the players it has on hand.
Folarin Balogun, a young forward who joined Aubameyang in departing Arsenal this winter, has joined Middlesbrough on loan until the end of the season, leaving Arteta with only two recognized forwards until May.
Those two possibilities are Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah, but they have a combined total of three Premier League goals this season.
Arsenal had the chance to sign Mauro Icardi of Paris Saint-Germain during the transfer window, according to reports, but turned it down.
The Gunners have free agent and former midfielder Jack Wilshere practicing and coaching with their first-team and academy groups. But Venkatesham maintained that the 30-year-old will not be given a professional contract.
Arsenal’s prospects of finishing in the top four are still very much alive, as they sit four points behind fourth-placed Manchester United despite having three games in hand.
Meanwhile, Arsenal supporters were assured by Ventakesham that plans are in the works to renovate the Emirates Stadium this calendar year.
Arsenal’s 60,000-seater stadium’s roof is being repaired and replaced, as well as banners depicting former players and club icons being replaced and the turnstile sections being upgraded.