Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth has provided an update on Arsenal’s January transfer plans as the Gunners grapple with a growing injury crisis in their attacking formation.
Arsenal’s need to strengthen their attack has become increasingly urgent following injuries to key players Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Saka was sidelined for months and the situation worsened during Arsenal’s FA Cup defeat to Manchester United when Gabriel Jesus suffered a serious knee injury.
The Brazilian striker was stretchered off in the 40th minute following a clash with Bruno Fernandes, leaving fans and the club concerned about his long-term availability. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed severity of injury, while Arsenal expert Charles Watts suggested Jesus might not feature again this season.
Sky Sports man confirms Arsenal are considering options to strengthen their striker
With Arsenal’s attacking depth reduced, Sheth revealed on Sky Sports that the club are actively exploring short and long-term options to strengthen their forward line this month.
“The best we can say is it’s time to take action because of the injuries they suffered. Arteta will first look within the squad to see what is available. Raheem Sterling has just returned from injury and he can play in the front 3. Ethan Nwaneri is injured at the moment but he will return as soon as possible. Granted, Bukayo Saka and potentially Gabriel Jesus are longer-term injuries.
“But Arsenal are a big club, so let’s take a step back here. It’s not like they sit there during the January transfer window and don’t talk about it. They will have looked at short and long term options. If this is going to be a long-term goal, it will probably require spending some money. It is likely that this player is considering seeing someone come straight into the team and strengthen the team or at least provide great competition for the team. existing players. If this is a short term option, you would think they would want someone to come in and improve the team. So if there is an injury to the top three like there is now, that quality gap between whoever is coming in at the moment and the new signing will be reduced. »
“Arsenal are definitely looking – make no mistake. But it’s easier said than done.
“Arsenal are definitely looking, make no mistake”?
Dharmesh Sheth wonders if Arsenal will be looking for a striker in January?? pic.twitter.com/nV0Zb9OrrR
– Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 13, 2025
Arsenal have been linked with a host of names, some of whom could be considered long-term targets and others short-term.
They have been heavily linked with Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but this is seen as a summer deal that will require a hefty fee.
Another related attacker is Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo with club tipped to sign him as potential solution to their current crisis.
With the club reportedly prioritizing strikers capable of making an immediate impact, the coming weeks could prove crucial to Arsenal’s ambitions this season. Whether they opt for a temporary solution or a marquee signing, one thing is clear: Arsenal cannot afford to stand still in January.