Arsenal Transfer Update: Mikel Arteta Looks to Secure Replacement After Bukayo Saka’s Injury
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta may be forced to explore the transfer market in January following Bukayo Saka’s injury setback.
After Saka’s injury, reports suggest Arteta could pursue a loan deal for Paris Saint-Germain forward Randal Kolo Muani in the upcoming window.
Despite Arsenal’s 5-1 win over Crystal Palace, Saka’s injury during the first half was a blow. Arteta confirmed that the winger will be out for several weeks due to a hamstring issue. This is a major loss as Saka has contributed five goals and ten assists in the Premier League, more than any of his teammates, with no other player surpassing eight goal contributions.
Arsenal are currently six points behind league leaders Liverpool, having played one match more. Fans are concerned that the gap could widen further due to Saka’s absence.
According to reports from The Standard, Arsenal might have the chance to sign PSG’s Muani on loan in January. Although Muani has had limited playing time this season, starting just twice for PSG, he has still managed to score two goals and provide one assist. He averages 0.75 goals and assists per 90 minutes in Ligue 1, outperforming Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli (0.57), Kai Havertz (0.52), and Gabriel Jesus (0.5).
Despite occasional struggles in PSG’s attack, Muani could benefit from playing alongside a player like Havertz, who can draw defenders and create space. However, doubts remain about whether Muani can maintain consistent form with regular minutes, and the recent knee injury to Raheem Sterling could add pressure if Muani joins Arsenal.
Muani had an impressive season with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022-23, scoring 15 league goals and providing 11 assists. A loan move without an option to buy would reduce the risk for Arsenal.
Are Arsenal’s Title Hopes at Risk?
Saka’s absence is a significant blow to Arsenal, who have relied heavily on him to break down opposition defenses and create chances from the right flank. As one of the team’s key set-piece takers, his injury could also impact Arsenal’s effectiveness in dead-ball situations, an area where they have struggled at times this season.
Earlier in the campaign, the Gunners struggled to generate opportunities when Martin Ødegaard was unavailable, suggesting they may face similar difficulties without Saka. With Arsenal aiming for around 90 points to secure the title, Saka’s injury represents a major challenge in their pursuit of the Premier League crown.
Nonetheless, this situation could offer Arteta a chance to showcase his tactical ingenuity and ability to overcome adversity.
