Arsenal are set to initiate discussions to sign a world-class striker, as Mikel Arteta aims to enhance his team’s attacking options.
The Gunners return to Premier League action this weekend, hosting Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium, as they embark on a title-defining run of fixtures. Arsenal have not secured a league victory since October 5, when they defeated Southampton.
With injuries mounting and it becoming more difficult to put goals into the back of the net, Arteta’s team is struggling to maintain their form. However, with director of football Edu Gaspar set to leave soon, Arteta’s influence at London Colney might grow, possibly giving him the final say in selecting a new striker.
Arsenal have lately opted for a false nine in their attack. Kai Havertz, who is ranked number 9 in FourFourTwo’s list of the best strikers in the world, has often led the line, with Leandro Trossard also playing as a center-forward.
Arsenal still in the market for a top-forward
Based on reports, Arteta is still on the lookout for another center-forward. Gabriel Jesus is also a potential option, with the Arsenal manager aiming to have the flexibility to position Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka alongside Havertz, while a new striker leads the attack at the top of the formation.
Considering this, TEAMtalk has reported that Arsenal are planning to have discussions with Dusan Vlahovic about a transfer to the Emirates Stadium.
The Juventus striker was widely speculated as a potential replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang while at Fiorentina in January 2022. Arsenal often track former targets, as seen with the signings of David Raya and Raheem Sterling, who were pursued long after the initial rumors about their interest.
Last month, reports indicated that the Gunners were “serious” about signing Vlahovic, and the Serbian remains on their list of potential targets. With Edu’s departure potentially giving Arteta more influence in the transfer market, it appears more likely that Arsenal could pursue the former target.
According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Juventus would demand €100 million to sell Vlahovic. However, Arsenal’s more restrained summer spending could give them the financial flexibility to make a significant offer for the striker.
The 24-year-old is currently in contract negotiations with his club, as he approaches the final year of his deal next season. While reports suggest Vlahovic is still on Arsenal’s radar, the club is unlikely to pursue a costly transfer midseason. With only a year remaining on his contract, his value could decrease considerably by summer.
