Former Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn predicts tough times ahead for the Gunners as we enter an important moment of the summer transfer window.

Speaking to Sky Sports News HD, the Englishman explained that left-back Gael Clichy and midfielders Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas will probably all leave, with the first two set to join title contenders, a move described by the 47-year old as a “disaster”.

Asked what comes next for Arsenal, Winterburn replied by saying that what needs to be done is to properly analyse the situation, use the cash from out transfers and strengthen the squad so as to be ready for next season.

Earlier, Arsenal’s official website confirmed that Clichy has completed a move to Manchester City for an undisclosed fee, making him the sixth Gunner to leave the North London Club for the sky-blue of Manchester City after Emmanuel Adebayor, Kolo Toure, Patrick Vieira, Stuart Taylor and Sylvinho.

On losing key elements of the squad, Winterburn said:

It looks like [Gael] Clichy and [Cesc] Fabregas could be gone by the weekend and [Samir] Nasri could go, too; it’s so disappointing.

These players have gained experience with Arsenal and two of them could move on to your title contenders. Not only are you weakening your own team, you’re strengthening the opposition; it’s a disaster.

If a player gets into the last year of his contract and says: ‘I want to move to Manchester United or Manchester City’, I think Arsenal will admit they can’t cope financially and take as much money as they can.

But it’s sad because I feel this is the first time Arsenal are starting to lose players that haven’t reached their peak. All you can do, though, is re-focus, get that money and strengthen the team.