Former Arsenal star Bacary Sagna has urged his old club to prioritise signing a physical striker like Oliver Giroud in the transfer window this summer.
Mikel Arteta’s side are seeking summer additions as they look to finally pip Manchester City to the Premier League title after two excruciating near misses in the last two campaigns.
One obvious area of improvement is the lack of a prolific central striker, with both Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah scoring just nine league goals combined last season.
Kai Havertz deputised up front to good effect at points last campaign, but Sagna wants to see the club target a more physical presence to add an extra dimension to their attacking options.
‘Arsenal need to be stronger and be more attacking going forward,’ the former full-back told Paddy Power.
‘This season, scoring goals was a problem for them. They could add a proper striker – a number nine.
‘Arsenal are playing well but they can improve on crossing the ball – they hold the ball well generally, but occasionally they’ll need to cross it more.
‘Arsenal are a fantastic team but they pass the ball around the box a lot, and some teams can come and make it difficult for them.
‘I’m happy with Gabriel Jesus, as long as he stays fit, but they still have to have cover. I would go for someone like Olivier Giroud, someone physical who can hold the ball quite well and support the team if they’re struggling.
‘They need someone who can wait in the box and help out offensively and defensively.’
As well as their quest for a striker, Arsenal are also looking to sign a versatile defender as well as a central midfielder.
The Gunners were progressing well in talks for Bologna and Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori but a deal has now stalled due to a difference in valuation and Jakub Kiwior’s reluctance to join Bologna as a makeweight.
