(Photo via: Sky Sports) / (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth has given an update on Arsenal’s January transfer plans as the Gunners face a growing injury crisis in their attacking line-up.
Arsenal’s need to strengthen their attack is becoming more pressing after injuries to key players Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Saka has been 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The Brazilian striker was withdrawn in the 40th minute after a clash with Bruno Fernandes, leaving fans and the club worried about his long-term availability. Manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the severity of the injury, while Arsenal pundit Charles Watts suggested Jesus he may not appear again this season.
The Sky Sports man confirms that Arsenal are considering options to strengthen their striker
With Arsenal’s attacking depth in short supply, Sheth revealed to Sky Sports that the club are actively exploring short- and long-term options to strengthen their forward line this month.
talking with Sky SportsDharmesh Sheth said:
“The best you can argue is that it is time to react to the injuries they have suffered. Arteta will first look within the squad to see what is available. Raheem Sterling has just returned from injury and can play in the forward 3. Ethan Nwaneri is injured at the moment but will be back sooner rather than later. It’s true that Bukayo Saka and potentially Gabriel Jesus are slightly more long-term injuries.”
“But Arsenal are a big club so let’s take a step back here. It’s not like they’re just sitting there in the January transfer window without talking about it. They’ll have looked at short- and long-term options. If it has to be a long-term goal, he will probably need some money to spend than the player is likely to see someone come directly into the team and strengthen the team or at least provide great competition to the existing players If it has to be an option a short-term, you’d think they’d want someone to come in to improve the squad. So if there’s an injury to the front three, that gap in quality between who’s coming in at the moment and the new recruit is going to be so big.”
“Arsenal are looking for it, make no mistake. But it’s easier said than done.”
“Arsenal are looking for it, make no mistake”?
Dharmesh Sheth on whether Arsenal are in the market for a striker this January? pic.twitter.com/nV0Zb9OrrR
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 13, 2025
Arsenal have been linked with a number of names, some of whom could be seen as long-term targets and others short-term.
They have been heavily linked with Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but this is seen as one for the summer that will command a hefty fee.
Another linked attacker is Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo and the club were urged to sign him as a possible solution to its current crisis.
With the club reportedly prioritizing forwards capable of making an immediate impact, the next few weeks could be pivotal 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 sit still in January.
