As we dive into the heart of the January transfer window, Arsenal is anticipated to emerge as a highly active participant in the ongoing proceedings, especially as we approach the latter half of the 2023/24 season. Mikel Arteta’s wishlist is prominently headed by the need for a striker to invigorate the team in 2024. The Emirates Stadium has been buzzing with speculation connecting Brentford’s Ivan Toney and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen to Arsenal. However, the hefty rumored price tags hovering around £100 million are poised as substantial obstacles impeding any potential deals.
The looming Financial Fair Play (FFP) restrictions, cast shadows over Arsenal following a robust summer recruitment, prompting the club’s recruitment staff to likely redirect their focus elsewhere to address attacking needs. The Telegraph suggests that Arsenal might turn their attention to Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee. The 22-year-old forward, standing at an imposing 6 feet 4 inches, has notched up eight goals and four assists in 22 appearances for the Serie A club this season, presenting Arteta with an alternative option compared to the current roster featuring Leonardo Trossard and Gabriel Jesus.
Amidst the transfer speculations, The Sun reports Arsenal’s £22 million offer for Getafe striker Borja Mayoral, who boasts an impressive record of 14 goals in as many appearances as Zirkzee. However, Getafe seems adamant, holding out for an offer in the vicinity of £39 million, signaling their determination to retain their star forward throughout January. In the event that a permanent deal proves elusive due to financial constraints, football.london suggests that Arsenal may explore the loan market to address their concerns.
While rectifying their goal-scoring woes takes precedence, Arsenal isn’t solely fixated on this aspect during the transfer window. The club is also actively seeking to fortify their midfield, particularly to bolster summer signing Declan Rice. Their sights are set on securing a deal for Everton ace Amadou Onana, with journalist Sacha Tavolieri reporting that Arsenal is engaged in ‘intensive’ talks with Sean Dyche’s side. Notably, Premier League rivals Manchester United are also keeping a close eye on the Belgian international, and their bid might receive a financial boost from new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.