Arsenal have been linked with a striker in the transfer market, looking to add that clinical edge to their game that they sometimes miss and there are a number of potential signings
There may be a slight sense of déjà vu at Arsenal in this current moment as strikers and finishing have become a topic of much heated discussion once again. It wasn’t too long ago that the Gunners faced a similar conundrum two season ago, with questions over the frontline.
A misfiring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left on a free, Alexandre Lacazette was coming to the end of his deal and so too was Eddie Nketiah. The north Londoners were struggling to make chances count at times and in the end, it meant narrowly missing out on a return to the Champions League.
That wait wouldn’t last too long though as drastic changes were planned for last summer that ensured striker discussion was quiet – at least for the season. Lacazette left for a return to Lyon, while Nketiah put pen to paper on a new deal before the arrival of Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City.
The latter option raised the standards at the club, adding plenty of ability on the ball and the possibility of drifting away and being more than just a penalty box striker. His absence through injury in the new year caused concerns, but Nketiah stepped up and showed he was more than capable too.
However, in the end it wasn’t quite enough as the Gunners missed out on the Premier League title, but the bar was set for them to improve further and get over the line. Fast forward a few games and their title credentials are already being tested, despite being unbeaten.
Four wins and two draws put them slightly behind the pace of leaders Man City, who are four points clear after winning every match possible. Compared to this stage last season, they are also one point worse off where they led, with performances far less fluid than usual.
The most recent case was the clash with North London rivals Tottenham, where the two sides went head-to-head and came out with a 2-2 draw. There were chances for Arsenal, with Jesus putting one golden chance down, while Nketiah struggled to grow into the game.
It’s led to whether there should be another option for the forward lines that can add the clinical edge that the side may be lacking. So with that said, here’s a look at the options available that could help add that in the coming months of the transfer window.
Ivan Toney
A solid Premier League striker, Ivan Toney has cemented himself amongst the most consistent performers since being promoted with Brentford. While his finishing in the box is one attribute – alongside his consistent ability to score penalties – its the ability to hold the ball and help counter attack that helps the Bees the most.
Whether that translates to Arsenal though, is another question, especially for a player that hasn’t kicked a ball for a few months and is likely to cost upwards of £50million, despite a dwindling contract.
Ollie Watkins
Another from the selection of Premier League experienced options is Aston Villa talisman Ollie Watkins, who has also been amongst the goals since his move to the top flight. Also into the final few years of his deal, the England international is another with consistent finishing ability if utilised properly.
Watkins found more success under Unai Emery as a penalty box striker, where with Steven Gerrard there were difficulties in contributing when forced to run the channels. If Arsenal were to use him for the penalty box presence, then he could be a useful addition.
Victor Osimhen
Moving away from Premier League experience but towards European elite, the next option could well be Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian international is a committed goalscorer, putting his body on the line both figuratively and literally to score goals, sometimes picking up injuries for his bravery to notch another finish.
With things at Napoli seeming far from content at this stage and with a deal that expires in 2025, Arsenal could have a golden opportunity on their hands.
Kylian Mbappe
Another option that is nearing the final few months of his contract is Kylian Mbappe, a star that seems continually linked with an exit from PSG. While Real Madrid will no doubt be favourites to land the forward, there have been reports claiming that any move to the Premier League would mean Arsenal are the preferred option.
Slight issues would pertain to both affordability on wages and any other contractual obligations, as well as his positioning in the team. Mbappe appears much more capable of performing to his best on the left-wing over the striker role, though he is able to play both positions.
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