Once again, Arsenal face a crucial decision this December: does Mikel Arteta need to sign a striker in January?
A goalless draw against Everton on Saturday was another setback for the Gunners in their Premier League title chase. Although the gap to league leaders Liverpool remains unchanged, Arsenal could have closed it had they been more clinical in front of goal.
Arteta’s side registered 13 shots and created enough expected goals (xG) to warrant a win, but their attack was once again lacking. Arteta noted, “We didn’t find the final pass. Sometimes the positioning in the box wasn’t perfect, so we need to improve that next time.”
While Kai Havertz has scored more goals this season than Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling combined, his contributions are still falling short for a team aiming for titles. Jesus, in particular, has just one goal in his last 33 appearances for Arsenal, and his limited starts this season suggest Arteta’s confidence in the Brazilian may be waning.
With Arsenal’s recent results of back-to-back draws—following a 1-1 against Fulham and Saturday’s 0-0 with Everton—they have failed to capitalize on a recent dip in form by Liverpool. Arsenal now find themselves six points behind the Reds, having played one more game.
The upcoming January transfer window is a topic of much speculation. Historically, Arsenal are not major players in the winter market, but their current league position may prompt Arteta to change that this time. Football.london writers have weighed in on who could be a valuable addition to the squad.
Arsenal’s roster is strong, but the lack of a consistent, prolific striker remains a key issue. Despite Havertz’s recent goal contributions, he has just one Premier League goal in the last two months, a concerning statistic for a team pushing for silverware. Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus, with 11 goals and two assists this season, has been previously linked with Arsenal and could be a good fit. The Serbian striker is 24 and fits the club’s model of targeting young, promising players. However, with a potential €60 million price tag, Arsenal’s ability to afford him under strict financial regulations remains uncertain. A potential sale of Gabriel Jesus could free up funds for such a move.
Others argue that Arsenal doesn’t necessarily need a traditional striker. Kai Havertz, they believe, fits Arteta’s system, offering qualities similar to Roberto Firmino under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool. However, this strategy requires prolific wingers. Bukayo Saka has been outstanding, with 21 goal involvements in 22 games, but on the opposite flank, Arsenal still lack a consistent threat. Gabriel Martinelli hasn’t been as effective recently, and although Leandro Trossard is capable of scoring, Arsenal could still improve from the left wing. Options like Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon, who could be available for the right price, might provide the attacking boost Arsenal needs.
Some believe Jonathan David could be the ideal striker for Arsenal. With his contract at Lille expiring in the summer, the Canadian international could be signed for a cut-price fee in January or on a free transfer in the summer. With 11 goals and one assist in 15 Ligue 1 games this season, David’s form makes him an appealing option for Arsenal, especially given their typical cautious approach to winter signings.
As the January window approaches, Arsenal’s plans will become clearer, and the club may yet make a move to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season.
