itstargetnews
Usually coy Mikel Arteta was unusually candid as he broke the news of Bukayo Saka’s torn hamstring that threatens Arsenal’s 2024/25 relegation.
Amid Arteta’s update, the Spaniard insisted the Gunners were fighting for the title with “one of the thinnest squads in the Premier League”. Some have interpreted Arteta’s recent comments as a message from the hierarchy ahead of the potentially crucial January transfer window. If Arsenal are to achieve their goals this term and meet pre-season expectations, Aggressive winters may be required.
Supporters were already keen on the idea of reinforcements before Saka’s muscle died at Selhurst Park. To be fair, most thought that swapping Reece Nelson for Raheem Sterling would not be enough to propel the Gunners to their first league title since 2004.
Arteta has suggested the north Londoners are open to business, but are notoriously difficult to make big deals in the January window. No club wants to part with their most attractive assets during the season.
However, Arsenal will undoubtedly look for opportunities to strengthen their squad. Here’s their position of need this winter, as well as some targets to keep an eye on.
The Gunners have long been obsessed with acquiring their long-term number nine at the club. He was a primary position of need this time last year, but then Kai Havertz showed promise and eventually played a key role in the Gunners’ title charge. Arsenal were lauded for not panicking in the winter.
Arsenal have significantly only signed one centre-forward since Arteta took over (Gabriel Jesus), and it is surely time to strengthen the position. Havertz is more than capable of performing as Arteta’s leading man, but is he a ceiling-raiser? The German has just six Premier League goals in 16 appearances this term.
It seems the Gunners will need something special to get over the hump.
main goals
If Arsenal opt for a centre-forward next year, they will go big. Thus, it may be difficult to achieve their desired goal in January.
The club are long-term admirers of Newcastle Alexander IsaacBut the Magpies, given the Swede’s contract doesn’t expire until 2028, could demand a hefty fee. Issac is in terrific form and is a favorite target of many supporters.
Benjamin Sesco may retest the waters After their failed attempt last summer, when Dusan Vlahovic There is one name that cannot escape rumours. Victor Gyokares Has caught everyone’s eye.
As soon as Arteta confirmed that Saka would be out for “several weeks” with a hamstring tear, there was an urgent cry for January reinforcements. Saka has needed cover for years, and Arteta’s reluctance to rotate has ultimately contributed to the winger’s latest setback.
Admittedly, finding a high-quality performer willing to play second fiddle is tough, but some may be tempted in January knowing they may have a few months to prove their worth before Saka returns.
The Gunners don’t just need a right-winger. They require a higher quality of full stop over wider areas. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard have not cut the mustard this season, while Raheem Sterling’s loan has so far proved pointless.
They have to sign at least one winger in January.
main goals
Forget Marcus Rashford. Manchester United won’t sell the Englishman to their local rivals, and Arsenal will surely turn their noses up. Financials involved in any potential deal.
However, the Gunners may look at other Premier League options. Always underrated Brian Mbeumo This term has shone once again in the absence of Ivan Toney and is a versatile option, while Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo He is a powerful and direct dribbler who is starting to develop into a regular final third contributor for the Cherries.
Randall Cole Muani Set to become available after falling out of favor at PSG. The Frenchman is another versatile forward who primarily operates as a number nine but can also play out wide.
Ademola Lookman There was earlier interest but Atlanta won’t part ways until midseason, when Nico Williams Enduring a very tough season at the Athletic Club. It is more likely to leave in summer.
Arsenal may be plagued by injuries at back-backs, but they are well-stocked in defense and many of the players Arteta boasts are also capable of filling in at the heart of their defence. Supporters will certainly not be particularly motivated if the club once again focus on strengthening their backline this winter while also considering the needs on the pitch.
The Gunners have been in impressive control of matches this term, but have dropped points when unable to convert pressure into open-play opportunities. Set-pieces are, of course, a reliable way.
Martin Odegaard is the main creator and most of Arsenal’s play is funneled down the right. Gunners need balance, and they may need another creative spark to tie things together on the left side. Mikel Marino is functional, but he has been happy to deceive so far. Arsenal may need something more than a midfielder who breaks out to win headers and make decoy runs – as valuable as that is.
main goals
Mohammed Jerusalem Tenuously linked, but he is someone who can operate from the left-half space in a creative tandem with Odegaard. There will also be scope for the pair to switch roles, with the captain occasionally showing the ability to be devastating from the inside-left position.
There are few links to otherwise out-and-out playmakers, though Xavi Simmons, Morgan Gibbs-White And Alex Bena Good fit.
Martin Zubimendi A deep carrier who has so far been reluctant to leave Real Sociedad.
