In recent years, Arsenal has shown a knack for successful winter recruitment, but their summer spending may hinder their much-needed activity this time around.
While the Gunners have had a strong start to the season, it is important not to overlook the potential need to strengthen during the January transfer window.
The long-term injury of Jurrien Timber and the upcoming absence of Takehiro Tomiyasu due to the Asian Cup could leave Arsenal short in the full-back positions. Additionally, the ongoing fitness issues of Thomas Partey indicate a necessity to enhance their midfield depth.
Furthermore, the forward line also warrants attention. Although Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have performed admirably, concerns have been raised regarding the lack of goals from Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah. It is worth noting that Gabriel Jesus brings more to the table than just his ability to finish chances.
Overall, while Arsenal’s strong start may give the impression that everything is running smoothly, it is crucial for the club to address these potential areas of weakness in order to maintain their momentum throughout the season.
In contrast to numerous other clubs, Arsenal has a commendable track record in the January transfer window in recent years. In the previous season, they secured the services of Leandro Trossard, who injected much-needed energy into the attacking line. Additionally, Jorginho and Jakub Kiwior have proven to be quite dependable when called upon by the Gunners.
Furthermore, in 2021, Arsenal made one of their most significant signings in recent history by bringing in Martin Odegaard from Real Madrid on an initial loan deal. Odegaard now serves as the team’s captain.
As Arsenal mounts another serious challenge for the Premier League title in north London, manager Mikel Arteta hopes that his signings this month will have a similar influential impact during the crucial run-in.
Ivan Toney (Brentford)
Toney is expected to have a hectic month ahead. In addition to his betting suspension being lifted on January 17, the Brentford striker is likely to be at the center of transfer rumors.
Both Arsenal and Chelsea have expressed interest in the talented English player for quite some time. Bees manager Thomas Frank has openly acknowledged the possibility of Toney leaving the club this winter. It’s not surprising that top clubs are attracted to Toney.
Last season, he showcased his lethal goal-scoring abilities, ranking only behind Erling Haaland and Harry Kane in the Premier League. Furthermore, Toney’s ability to create opportunities and contribute to the team’s overall play is often overlooked. As a result, Brentford has placed a significant price tag on his head.
Reports regarding his valuation have varied, with some suggesting that the club is seeking as much as £100 million ($128m) for the talented forward. This figure might deter Arsenal, but their willingness to invest heavily in a single player was evident when they signed Declan Rice for a similar amount during the summer transfer window.
Although it would require some creative financial arrangements, such as an initial loan with an option to buy, similar to the deal for David Raya, it is difficult to argue against the fact that Toney would be a substantial upgrade to Arteta’s current attacking options. In fact, his addition could potentially propel Arsenal closer to the title race.
Marcos Leonardo (Santos)
If Arsenal is looking for an immediate impact, Toney would be the ideal choice. However, if they are willing to be patient, Leonardo is a compelling option. In an interview with GOAL in 2022, Leonardo revealed that his footballing idol is Cristiano Ronaldo, which speaks volumes about his ambition and determination.
The year 2023 was undoubtedly challenging for the young striker, as Santos, a club renowned for producing talents like Neymar, Rodrygo, and Gabigol, suffered their first-ever relegation. This setback must have been a significant blow for Leonardo, but it presents an opportunity for Arsenal to benefit from his talents.
His agent has already confirmed that Leonardo will be leaving Santos in January, stating, “During the previous transfer market, he had the chance to be sold, but Santos’ sporting situation was unique. He chose to stay and help the team until the end of the championship. However, the time has come for him to move on. He desires a European experience, and that time will come this winter.”
While there is interest from other clubs like Real Madrid, Arsenal’s strong Brazilian core makes north London an enticing destination for the talented 20-year-old. One potential strategy could be signing him and then loaning him out to gain valuable first-team experience elsewhere, with the intention of him eventually replacing Nketiah next season.
Goncalo Inacio
Goncalo Inacio, a player from Sporting CP, has caught the attention of Arsenal manager Arteta. Despite initially considering Ben White, Arteta has stuck with his reliable center-back pairing of William Saliba and Gabriel throughout the season. However, Saliba’s absence due to injury towards the end of 2022-23 highlighted the potential instability that could arise if one of the defenders gets injured, as the backup options at Arsenal are not of the same caliber.
Bringing in Inacio could be a solution to this potential problem. The 22-year-old Portuguese player has been a consistent performer for Sporting CP and still has room for improvement. Inacio is composed on the ball and has a tendency to push forward from the defensive line. Although he may not be the tallest player, his exceptional game reading skills compensate for it. The only obstacle is the cost of acquiring him. Reports suggest that Sporting CP is reluctant to let him go for anything less than his €60m (£52m/$67m) release clause, which might be a hefty price for Arsenal to agree on in January.
Ousmane Diomande
Ousmane Diomande, a defender for Sporting CP, has also caught the attention of Arsenal, along with his teammate Inacio. Diomande, who received part of his footballing education at Midtjylland, possesses similar qualities to Inacio. Both players are modern defenders known for their impressive passing abilities and adeptness at handling attackers. However, Diomande stands out due to his significant height advantage over his club partner. Additionally, being several years younger, he holds a slightly higher value, with Sporting reportedly asking for £69m ($88m). Although this may seem expensive, Arsenal could potentially secure a starting centre-back for the next decade if Diomande continues to progress at his current rate. It is worth noting that Diomande’s availability in January is uncertain, as he has recently earned a spot in the Ivory Coast squad for AFCON.
Jorrel Hato
Jorrel Hato, the rising star of Ajax, has been a shining light in an otherwise disappointing 2023-24 season for the club. Despite being just 17 years old, he has displayed his exceptional skills both in the center and on the left side of the defense. Several clubs, including Arsenal, have shown keen interest in this young talent, recognizing him as the next European sensation to emerge from Amsterdam.
Impressively, Hato has already taken on the responsibility of captaining Ajax twice this season, showcasing his natural leadership qualities. Furthermore, he has made a significant impact on the field, contributing a goal in Ajax’s commanding 5-0 triumph over Vitesse.
With Timber’s prolonged absence, Arteta would undoubtedly value Hato’s versatility in the backline. However, securing his services may come at a considerable cost, despite his contract with Ajax expiring in 2025.
Pedro Neto
Pedro Neto, the talented Wolves player, has been quietly excelling this season. Despite not featuring since October, he was leading the assists charts on Christmas Day, having only failed to set up a goal in three out of his ten Premier League appearances so far.
Although the 23-year-old has been previously linked with Liverpool, Arsenal has emerged as the most probable destination for him in recent months. With his ability to play in various positions in the forward line and his proven success in the top flight, he draws comparisons to Trossard, who Arsenal signed a year ago to revitalize their attacking options.
Considering that Arteta seems to have reservations about Emile Smith Rowe and Reiss Nelson, it is not far-fetched to imagine Neto being brought in this winter, potentially with one of the Hale End graduates moving in the opposite direction. However, it is crucial for Neto to demonstrate his fitness before any transfer can take place.
