Arsenal’s attacking struggles this season have prompted Mikel Arteta and the club’s management to target reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window. With a reported budget of £100 million, Arsenal is expected to pursue two strikers to strengthen their frontline. The Gunners have been competitive in the Premier League and Champions League but have lacked a consistent goal scorer to match the firepower of their title rivals.
Arsenal’s Attacking Issues
While Arsenal has remained a top contender in English football, their attack has shown weaknesses. Gabriel Jesus, the club’s primary striker, has struggled with injuries and inconsistency, scoring fewer goals than expected for a team aiming for trophies. Kai Havertz, who has been used as a false nine, has had some bright moments but is not a natural striker. Meanwhile, Eddie Nketiah has not convinced as a long-term solution for the number nine role.
The team’s lack of a clinical goal scorer has been a recurring issue. Compared to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland or Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Arsenal lacks a player who can regularly contribute 20+ goals per season. This has been a major concern for Arteta, who believes that signing two quality forwards will help Arsenal challenge for silverware.
Potential Striker Targets
1. Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Ollie Watkins has been one of the standout strikers in the Premier League over the last two seasons. The 27-year-old England international scored over 20 goals in the 2023-24 season, proving his ability to perform at the highest level. His pace, finishing, and ability to link up play make him an ideal target for Arsenal.
Aston Villa values Watkins at around £50 million, and Arsenal would need to make a significant offer to convince Villa to sell. However, with Villa qualifying for the Champions League, they may resist selling their top striker, making negotiations complicated.
2. Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)
Alexander Isak has been on Arsenal’s radar for a long time. The Swedish striker has impressed at Newcastle with his technical ability, pace, and finishing. At just 24 years old, Isak represents a long-term investment, but his price tag is high. Newcastle reportedly values him at over £80 million, which could take up most of Arsenal’s budget.
Isak’s playing style suits Arsenal’s tactical setup, as he can drop deep to link play and also run in behind defenses. However, Newcastle’s reluctance to sell means Arsenal might have to look elsewhere unless they are willing to break their transfer record.
3. Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
Nico Williams is a versatile forward who can play as a striker or winger. The Spanish international has a €60 million release clause, making him an attainable target for Arsenal. His dribbling, pace, and attacking threat would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s forward line.
Williams has been in excellent form for Athletic Bilbao and the Spanish national team, attracting interest from multiple European clubs. While he is not an out-and-out striker, his ability to create and score goals makes him an appealing option.
4. Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
In a surprising twist, Arsenal has reportedly inquired about Marcus Rashford’s availability. The Manchester United forward has had a difficult season, struggling for consistency under Erik ten Hag. Despite this, Rashford remains one of the most talented attackers in English football.
Rashford’s ability to play across the front line would provide Arteta with tactical flexibility. However, a transfer between two rival clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United is highly unlikely unless Rashford pushes for a move. Additionally, his high wages could be a stumbling block for Arsenal.
Financial Considerations
Arsenal’s willingness to spend £100 million on two strikers signals their ambition, but financial planning will be crucial. The club must decide whether to go for one marquee signing or split the budget between two players.
Selling fringe players could help raise additional funds. Eddie Nketiah, who has struggled for regular minutes, could be sold to generate cash for a new striker. Other players like Reiss Nelson and Fábio Vieira might also be offloaded to balance the books.
Arsenal will also need to consider the wage structure. Signing a top-class striker will likely require a significant salary package, which could impact negotiations with existing squad members. Ensuring financial stability while strengthening the squad will be key.
How Would These Strikers Fit Into Arteta’s System?
Arteta prefers a high-intensity pressing style with fluid attacking movements. A new striker would need to fit into this system by not only scoring goals but also contributing to the team’s build-up play.
- Watkins and Isak are both mobile forwards who can play as traditional number nines or drop deep to link up with teammates. Either of them would be a great fit for Arsenal’s playing style.
- Nico Williams would bring speed and creativity, potentially forming a deadly partnership with Bukayo Saka on the wings.
- Rashford would add experience and versatility, but his inconsistent form raises concerns.
Challenges Arsenal May Face in These Transfers
While Arsenal is eager to strengthen their attack, several challenges could make these transfers difficult:
- Competition from Other Clubs – Other top clubs are also in the market for strikers, and Arsenal will have to move quickly to secure their targets.
- High Price Tags – Clubs are aware of Arsenal’s need for a striker and may demand higher transfer fees.
- Player Preferences – Some players may prefer to stay at their current clubs or move elsewhere, making negotiations tricky.
- Financial Fair Play (FFP) Regulations – Arsenal must ensure they comply with financial regulations while making big-money signings.
Conclusion
Arsenal’s pursuit of two strikers in a £100 million deal reflects their determination to fix their attacking issues. The club is considering various options, including Premier League-proven forwards like Ollie Watkins and Alexander Isak, as well as exciting talents like Nico Williams and Marcus Rashford.
While the transfer window presents an opportunity to strengthen the squad, Arsenal will need to navigate financial challenges, player negotiations, and competition from rival clubs. If they can successfully secure the right signings, they will be in a strong position to challenge for the Premier League title and compete in the Champions League next season.
As the transfer window approaches, Arsenal fans will be eager to see how Arteta and the club’s management execute their plans to build a more potent attack.
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