If Arsenal are to be competitive next season they need to add at least three players according to Ray Parlour.

The former midfielder told Sky Sports that the Carling Cup defeat against Birmingham City was a key moment in Arsenal’s campaign as it was a golden opportunity for the Gunners to finally bring a trophy to the Emirates and push on to win something more.

Asked where the Gunners need to strengthen, the Englishman said that a centre half and central midfielder are a must with maybe a striker needed as well and also an experienced goalkeeper who can inject confidence in the back four.

Parlour concluded by saying that other teams like Liverpool and Manchester City will also be active during the summer transfer window as well as Champions Manchester United who may decide to add one or two players to their squad.

On what Arsenal need, Parlour said:

I think the Carling Cup was a big downfall for them, had they won that against Birmingham that would have been a trophy in the Cabinet. That is where all went wrong for me.

[What they need?] A centre half, centre midfield player, maybe another striker, for me that’s where the most important positions are.

Goalkeeper even, sometimes, Szczesny has done brilliant this season but maybe they need a bit of experience in there as well.

There might be four-five places they may have to sign. But it’s going to be interesting what players are out there for Arsene Wenger, who he thinks will be in that side and do a good job for Arsenal.

It’s going to be a hell of a summer, with the Manchester City, the Liverpool, Manchester United probably have to strengthen as well so it will be a transfer merry-go-round and we’ll see what happens.