Arsenal began the New Year with a victory over Brentford, but with the January transfer window now open, Mikel Arteta is focused on signing a new forward to mitigate the impact of Bukayo Saka’s injury.
Saka is sidelined until March, and while Ethan Nwaneri impressed in his absence, the Gunners could still benefit from additional reinforcements.
Arteta has emphasized that even if a new signing arrives, Nwaneri would continue to feature in the squad.
Interestingly, Arteta’s priority may not be a direct replacement for Saka. Instead, he is reportedly targeting a long-term solution for the central striker position. Among the potential options, Serbian forward Dusan Vlahovic is said to top the list.
Journalist Rudy Galetti shared on X that Vlahovic is Arteta’s primary target, with other names like Bryan Mbuemo, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, and Leroy Sané also under consideration.
Vlahovic, who was previously seen as a perfect fit for Arsenal before joining Juventus, has been repeatedly linked with the club over the years. Scouts reportedly assessed his performance again in recent months.
Given the widespread call for Arsenal to secure a new number nine, pursuing Vlahovic appears to align with the club’s needs.
Although there have been rumors that the striker is hesitant about a move to England, his struggles to reach full potential at Juventus could make the transfer more appealing now.
Vlahovic’s qualities, including his remarkable pace, have drawn praise from pundits like Micah Richards, who described him on BBC Radio 5 Live in 2021 as “lightning” with “a wand of a left foot.” With Arsenal aiming to close the gap on Liverpool, signing Vlahovic could provide a crucial boost.
Man Utd in battle with Arsenal over a deal to sign 6ft 3in tall star
Manchester United are reportedly in a transfer tussle with Arsenal for the signature of Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens, according to Caught Offside.
Andre Onana has been United’s first-choice goalkeeper since joining from Inter Milan last year, while Altay Bayindir was brought in from Fenerbahce as a backup.
However, it has been suggested that manager Ruben Amorim is seeking a new goalkeeper capable of challenging Onana for the starting spot, as Bayindir is considered insufficient for that role.
Caught Offside reports that Manchester United have been monitoring Lammens’ progress and are keen on signing him. Royal Antwerp is reportedly open to selling the 6ft 3in goalkeeper for around £8 million, but United could face stiff competition from Arsenal, who are also interested in the player.
United have endured a dreadful start to the season, currently sitting 14th in the Premier League and just seven points above the relegation zone following a 2-0 loss to Newcastle United.
Amorim has acknowledged that the team is in a relegation battle, having secured only three points from their last six league games. Strengthening multiple areas of the squad, including the goalkeeping department, appears essential.
Onana has had a mixed debut campaign at Old Trafford, with inconsistent performances this season. Meanwhile, Arsenal may also look to reinforce their goalkeeping options, particularly if they decide not to retain Neto, who joined on loan last summer but, at 35 years old, might not be a long-term solution.
Lammens has impressed for Royal Antwerp this season, recording four clean sheets and an 80% save percentage in 19 Pro League appearances.
He could be a valuable addition for either Arsenal or Manchester United. It remains to be seen whether the North London club or the record Premier League champions will secure his services.
