Arsenal may look to sign a new forward during the January transfer window as they aim to sustain their push for the Premier League title.
With Bukayo Saka set to miss some time following surgery on his hamstring, the Gunners lack an experienced replacement for the winger.
“We are ready if we need to act, but the January transfer window is always tricky and hard to manage,” said manager Mikel Arteta. “Opportunities are limited, but we’ll be prepared.”
Here are seven potential targets to fill in for Saka and provide competition once he’s fully fit again:
Bryan Mbeumo
Mbeumo has been a key player for Brentford since helping them win promotion in 2020/21. Recently, he impressed in a 3-1 loss to Arsenal, scoring with a smart left-foot finish. The 2024/25 season has seen him net 13 Premier League goals, placing him joint-third in the scoring charts. Brentford manager Thomas Frank believes Mbeumo will eventually play for a bigger club, with Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle all showing interest. The forward is valued at around £50 million.
Mohammed Kudus
After moving to West Ham from Ajax for a reported £45 million in the summer of 2023, Kudus has made a strong impact, with 17 goals and eight assists in 62 appearances for the club. The 24-year-old has been linked with a move to Arsenal, with reports suggesting he desires a switch to a Champions League contender. While he has an £85 million release clause, it won’t be activated until the summer.
Antoine Semenyo
Bournemouth’s standout performer this season, Semenyo has contributed seven goals or assists in the Premier League, including strikes against Manchester City and Manchester United. At 24, he’s been linked with several top clubs, including Arsenal, and the Gunners might hold an advantage in securing his signature.
Nico Williams
One of Europe’s brightest young talents, Williams had an exceptional 2023/24 season with Athletic Bilbao, registering eight goals and 19 assists. He was also crucial to Spain’s Euro 2024 victory. The winger has a €58 million (£48m) release clause, which could be triggered in January.
Leroy Sane
Now in the final six months of his contract at Bayern Munich, Sane could be available for a reduced price in January. The German winger previously spent four seasons at Manchester City and could reunite with Arteta at Arsenal, where the coach helped him improve significantly during their time together at City.
Kingsley Coman
Another Bayern Munich player linked with a move to Arsenal is Coman. The French winger has made 19 appearances this season but is no longer a regular starter. His flexibility across both wings could make him a suitable temporary replacement for Saka, and Arsenal could pursue him on loan if Bayern are open to letting him go.
Takefusa Kubo
Having already signed Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad in the summer, Arsenal could look to add Kubo from the same club in the upcoming transfer window.
