Arsenal’s struggle to find the back of the net has been a persistent issue throughout the 2023/24 season, and the recent 2-0 home defeat to West Ham followed by another 2-1 loss to Fulham only emphasized the team’s lack of cutting edge. The disappointment of the match highlighted the missed opportunities, particularly with Gabriel Jesus failing to convert chances from their 30 shots. Thus, Arsenal are now looking for new strikers in the ongoing January transfer window 2024.
Despite the challenges of the January transfer window, Mikel Arteta and his team are likely to seek strategic additions to bolster their attacking options and address the scoring woes that have hindered their title aspirations.
Top 5 strikers on radar of Arsenal in winter transfer window 2024
Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Arsenal are in search of impactful additions to fortify their attacking options and potentially make a decisive impact on their performance from now until May. Here are five strikers that merit serious consideration:
Youssef En-Nesyri
Youssef En-Nesyri, a standout performer for Morocco during the 2022 World Cup, has garnered global attention and emerges as a plausible target for Arsenal in the upcoming transfer window.
The 26-year-old possesses a notable aerial threat, a quality that could significantly contribute to Arsenal’s attacking dynamics. Despite being recognized for his prowess as a ‘target man,’ En-Nesyri also showcases ample pace for playing on defensive shoulders and the physicality necessary to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.
However, while En-Nesyri’s strengths are evident, there are notable considerations to bear in mind. His involvement in build-up phases is perceived as limited, and his goal-scoring figures, totalling nine goals this season, might not meet the desired standards for a striker at Arsenal. These factors could prompt the club to explore alternative options.
Sevilla’s challenging season adds an interesting dimension to the potential transfer. With reports suggesting a less rigid stance on En-Nesyri’s €80 million release clause and the club potentially open to a winter move, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta finds himself with compelling considerations.
The prospect of acquiring En-Nesyri’s services may hinge on negotiations between the two clubs, making it a storyline worth monitoring as the transfer window approaches.
Also Read: Arsenal Contemplate Loan Move for Tomiyasu as January Transfer Window Nears
Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko, currently with RB Leipzig, has seen a recent decline in his playing time, potentially making a transfer financially viable for interested clubs. The young Slovenian, once dubbed ‘the next Erling Haaland,’ has experienced a reduced role in the team, starting only three of the 16 Bundesliga matches this season and accumulating a modest 344 minutes of play.
Despite his peripheral status, Sesko’s talent is evident, as demonstrated by his remarkable 20-goal contributions, including 16 goals, in 30 league appearances last season. Standing at an imposing 1.94 meters, Sesko combines electrifying pace with a clinical touch, portraying the qualities of a complete striker in the making.
While RB Leipzig’s progress in the Champions League could impact the feasibility of acquiring Sesko, his limited game time suggests an opportunity for negotiations. The potential transfer of this promising young striker becomes an intriguing prospect, with clubs eyeing a player whose talents have drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland.
Also Read: Arsenal January Transfer Window 2024: Targets, Potential Signings, Need and Outgoing
Serhou Guirassy
Serhou Guirassy, currently shining with VfB Stuttgart, has emerged as one of the most prolific strikers in the Bundesliga, making him an enticing target for potential suitors.
VfB Stuttgart’s remarkable ascent, reminiscent of Leicester City’s fairy tale in 2016, places them in third position, just eight points adrift of the league leaders.
This remarkable transformation, only six months after narrowly escaping relegation, owes much to the stellar form of their outstanding striker, Serhou Guirassy. With an impressive tally of 17 goals in 14 games, he sits second in the Bundesliga scoring charts, trailing only four goals behind the prolific Harry Kane.
Guirassy’s goal-scoring prowess is underpinned by several key attributes, including comfort on either foot, adept ball security in tight spaces, impressive speed, and a strong aerial ability. His clinical finishing, reflected in a conversion rate of 41%, addresses a pressing need for Arsenal, who have struggled in front of goal.
While the striker’s age, at 27, may raise questions in the context of Mikel Arteta’s youth-focused project, his reported £15 million release clause could present an irresistible opportunity. Despite age considerations being overlooked in previous transfer windows, Guirassy’s skill set and affordable release clause make him a compelling option for Arsenal as they seek to bolster their attacking lineup.
Also Read: Arsenal Eyes Matthijs de Ligt to Bolster Defensive Ranks
Kylian Mbappe
Arsenal finds themselves among the myriad of European clubs expressing interest in the coveted talent of Kylian Mbappe. The Paris Saint-Germain superstar’s situation has triggered heightened attention over the last six months, as he opted against extending his stay with the French club, leaving his future in a state of uncertainty.
Mbappe’s decision not to renew his contract with PSG has put elite clubs on high alert, with his reported dream move to Real Madrid at the forefront of discussions. However, PSG are determined to thwart any attempts by the forward to make the switch to the Spanish capital. Both Arsenal and Chelsea are said to be closely monitoring the situation, with reports indicating that the clubs are keeping a keen eye on Mbappe’s potential availability.
This isn’t the first time Arsenal has been linked with Mbappe, as back in 2016, during his breakout period at AS Monaco, Arsene Wenger’s side was among the frontrunners vying for his signature. Former Arsenal scout Gilles Grimandi has since expressed regret about the unsuccessful pursuit of Mbappe during that time.
As the saga surrounding Kylian Mbappe’s future unfolds, Arsenal remains in the mix of clubs expressing interest, eagerly monitoring the situation and contemplating the possibility of securing the services of the two-time World Cup Golden Boot winner.
Roberto Firmino
In a surprising turn of events, rumours are circulating that Roberto Firmino may be eyeing a departure from Al-Ahli in January, sparking unconventional speculation about a potential move to Arsenal. The Brazilian striker, who made headlines with a debut hat-trick, has encountered a dry spell, failing to find the net in his last 17 appearances and often finding himself on the bench for The Royals.
Firmino’s recent struggles have raised concerns, and the flatlining Arabian dream has opened the possibility of a departure. Despite the less-than-ideal goal-scoring numbers, the experienced Brazil star could be an intriguing option for Arsenal. Given Arsenal’s financial constraints under Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, Firmino might fall within their affordable range.
While Firmino may not be the player he once was, his familiarity with the Premier League and the fact that he would require no adaptation period could work in Arsenal’s favour. The Brazilian’s versatility suits Arsenal’s jack-of-all-trades striker role, and his experience could bring valuable leadership to the squad, similar to Jorginho’s impact a year ago.
It’s acknowledged that Firmino might not be the top priority for Arsenal, and his recent form may not excite the fanbase. However, his availability, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for Mikel Arteta’s system make him a potential candidate worth revisiting, especially as the January transfer window progresses. Keeping an eye on this deal in the final hours of deadline day could be a strategic move for Arsenal.