(Image via: Sky Sports) / (Photo by Stuart Macfarlane/Arsenal via Getty Images)
Sky Sports' correspondent Dharmesh Sheth has provided 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 bolster their attack has become increasingly urgent following injuries to key players Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus. Saka was sidelined for several 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 forced off in the 40th minute after a collision with Bruno Fernandes, leaving fans and the club concerned about his long-term availability. Technical director Mikel Arteta confirmed the seriousness of the injury, while Arsenal expert Charles Watts indicated that Jesus may not participate again this season.
The Sky Sports man confirms that Arsenal are considering options to strengthen their striker
With Arsenal's attacking depth weak, Sheath revealed on Sky Sports that the club are actively exploring short-term and long-term options to bolster their attacking line this month.
talking to Sky SportsDharmesh Sheth said:
“The best you can argue is that it's time to respond because of the injuries they've had. Arteta will look within the squad first for what's available. Raheem Sterling has just come back from injury and can play in the third line. Ethan Nwaneri is injured at the moment but he will be back.” Sooner than later Admittedly, Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus are likely to be more injured in the long term.
“But Arsenal is a big club so let's take a step back here. It's not like they're sitting there in the January transfer window and not talking about it. They will have looked at short-term and long-term options. If the target is long-term, it will probably require some amount of More money to spend than players would consider on someone who comes straight into the team and strengthens the team or at least provides significant competition to the existing players. If this is a short-term option, you would think they would want to bring in someone to improve the team so, if it's there infection Up front as it stands at the moment, the gap in quality between whoever is coming in at the moment and the new recruit will be close.”
“Arsenal are definitely looking – make no mistake about it. But that's easier said than done.”
“Arsenal are definitely looking, make no mistake about it”?
Dharmesh Sheth on whether Arsenal are in the market for a striker in January?? pic.twitter.com/nV0Zb9OrrR
– Sky Sports News (SkySportsNews) January 13, 2025
Arsenal have been linked with a host of names, some of whom may be viewed as long-term targets and others as short-term targets.
They have been strongly linked with Newcastle's Alexander Isak, but that is seen as a deal for the summer which would require a hefty fee.
Another striker linked is Brentford's Brian Mbeumo, with the club being urged to sign him as a potential solution to their current crisis.
And with reports that the club is prioritizing strikers capable of making an immediate impact, the coming weeks could be pivotal for Arsenal's ambitions this season. Whether they opt for a temporary fix or a marquee signing, one thing is clear: Arsenal cannot afford to stand still in January.
