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There have been numerous links to midfielders over the last few weeks, with moves for Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo touted in the media.
Whilst midfield seems to be a hot topic, there’s yet to be a serious link to a centre forward for the Gunners.
Whilst the forward department is well stocked, it falls short on quality which could have played a role in pushing Arsenal further down the line in the title race.
Whilst it doesn’t make sense for Mikel Arteta to turn to a traditional centre forward like Manchester City have with Erling Haaland, and Liverpool with Darwin Nunez, having back-up readily available for rotation with Gabriel Jesus is a must.
Why do Arsenal need another striker?
Strikers have a long-traditional history of being a success at Arsenal. Ian Wright, Thierry Henry, Robin Van Persie. That sort of player currently seems to be the missing link in the final third for Arsenal and whilst Jesus is an exceptionally gifted player, is he right for the central position?
11 goals in 26 games in the Premier League games is a decent return, especially when the likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Martin Odegaard all also hit double figures.
But next in line after Jesus is Eddie Nketiah who has struggled to really convince he’s ready to step up to the Premier League, and Folarin Balogun who is coming off the back of stellar season in Ligue 1 with Riem, although he is expected to depart this summer.
Leo Trossard arrived in January, but again, not a traditional striker. So whilst there is plenty of depth in the final third, Arsenal are still lacking a natural striker with experience and quality.
Who could Arsenal target this summer?
The likes of Ivan Toney would fit the mould perfectly. He’s a player who is capable of dropping deep and can provide an outlet with his hold up ability. Having scored 32 goals across 66 Premier League games, Toney would have been the ideal answer but his ban by the FA would put pay to any potential move happening.
Roberto Firmino would be the ideal solution to the depth issue. The Brazilian has been a squad player at Liverpool over the last two seasons and is leaving Anfield this summer. Considering his role as a false nine in Klopp’s forward line, he would be the perfect fit for Arteta.
At 31, you’d like to think Firmino still has more to offer at the top level, especially as a rotational option for Arteta and considering he scored 13 goals in 35 games last season, he would be the ideal candidate, and on a free transfer.
There’s certainly value elsewhere for Arteta and adding another striker to the forward line could push Arsenal much further in their pursuit for trophies next season.
