Arsenal have emerged as a major player in the January transfer window, with their sights set firmly on acquiring a top-class striker. After years of relying on versatile forwards and attacking midfielders, the North London club appears ready to invest heavily in a true number 9, potentially as soon as this month.
Calciomercato report that the Gunners’ urgency has been heightened by a series of injuries to key attacking players. Gabriel Jesus’s recent setback, which appears to be serious, follows fitness issues for Bukayo Saka, Raheem Sterling, and Gabriel Martinelli. Even young prospect Ethan Nwaneri has succumbed to injury after being thrust into first-team action.
This injury crisis has left Arsenal with limited options up front, with Leandro Trossard and Kai Havertz – neither of whom are traditional strikers – struggling to find the back of the net consistently. The team’s defensive players have often outscored their attacking counterparts, particularly from set-pieces.
Manager Mikel Arteta has publicly expressed his concern about the team’s goalscoring woes, stating after a recent FA Cup defeat: “It’s incredible that we couldn’t win this match. We have a problem putting the ball in the opponent’s net. I’m very worried about Gabriel Jesus’s knee; that’s my feeling. Unfortunately, things are not going well.”
Arsenal’s potential entry into the striker market could have significant ripple effects across Europe, with several high-profile targets on their radar:
Concrete Options:
– Jonathan David (Lille): The current Ligue 1 top scorer is also being monitored by Inter, Juventus, and AC Milan.
– Victor Osimhen: Currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, he could be Premier League-bound in the summer.
– Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig): A long-term Arsenal target, also interesting AC Milan.
– Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus): The Serbian striker could be available immediately due to his contract situation and reported discontent in Turin.
Dream Signings:
– Jhon Duran (Aston Villa): Under contract until 2030, but eager for more playing time.
– Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP): Has a €100 million release clause and is also linked with Manchester United.
– Alexander Isak (Newcastle): A long-time Arsenal target, but potentially priced at £150 million.
Potential Bargains:
– Evan Ferguson
– Marcus Rashford
– Liam Delap
– Randal Kolo Muani
