Mikel Arteta has hinted that Arsenal might be in the market for a forward before the transfer deadline, following an injury to Gabriel Jesus. The Brazilian striker missed Arsenal’s 2-0 win against Aston Villa due to a groin injury, which has put the club’s attacking depth under scrutiny. Arteta admitted that Arsenal is “a little bit short” in attack and could make a move if the right opportunity arises.
The injury to Jesus, who is set for an MRI scan to assess the damage, has also cast doubt on Eddie Nketiah’s potential £30 million transfer to Nottingham Forest. With Nketiah benched during the Villa match, Arsenal may prioritize reinforcing their forward line to maintain their title challenge.
Arteta acknowledged the increasing competitiveness of the Premier League, stating, “We are really happy with the squad, but it’s true we had an injury with Gabriel Jesus, and we missed him. We are a little bit short, and if we can do something, then we will do it.”
This situation has fueled speculation linking Arsenal with a move for Napoli’s star striker, Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian has been linked with moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. However, a twist in the transfer sees Arsenal entering the fray, undeterred by the challenges posed by the Nigerian forward’s substantial wage demands and Napoli’s daunting £110 million release clause. These financial barriers have discouraged many of Europe’s elite clubs, positioning Arsenal as one of the few teams actively pursuing him. A potential signing of Osimhen would significantly bolster Arsenal’s attacking options and keep them in the hunt for the Premier League title.
During the Villa match, second-half goals from Leandro Trossard and Thomas Partey ensured Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the season. Trossard, who came on for Gabriel Martinelli, scored just two minutes after entering the pitch. David Raya, Arsenal’s goalkeeper, made a crucial save to deny Villa’s Ollie Watkins, helping secure the victory.
As the transfer window draws to a close, all eyes will be on Arsenal to see if they make a late move for a forward, with Victor Osimhen’s name increasingly linked to the club.
