Arsenal are quickly back in action this week as they continue to challenge on all fronts under Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners will face Newcastle United in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final on Tuesday night, before shifting their focus to the third round of the FA Cup, with Manchester United visiting the Emirates Stadium.
Manchester United enters the match with renewed confidence, having halted Liverpool’s momentum in the Premier League title race with a 2-2 draw at Anfield—just a day after Arsenal could only secure a 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion.
Arsenal have been dealing with several injury setbacks, including an extended absence for Bukayo Saka, while Kai Havertz has missed the last two games due to illness.
Ethan Nwaneri was substituted at half-time against Brighton after scoring the opening goal for Arsenal. Arteta commented on the situation over the weekend.
“Really bad news because I think we’ve lost him (Nwaneri), we had to take him off at half-time with some muscular issues.”
Arteta is willing to strengthen his squad in January, but the Gunners have faced an early setback in their efforts to enhance their attacking options, as multiple reports indicate that Wolves forward Matheus Cunha has verbally agreed to a new contract with the Premier League side.
Cunha has been rumored to be a target for a move to North London for several months. Football Insider recently reported that Arsenal were considering a January transfer for the 25-year-old, who has stood out as a bright spot in what has been a challenging season for Wolves.
It was reported late last month that a potential deal could range between £50m and £60m. Cunha joined Wolves from Atletico Madrid on an initial loan in January 2023 and has been a major success at Molineux since the £44m move was made permanent in the summer of 2023.
Speaking about potential transfers this month, Arteta has previously said: “Let’s see. If there’s an opportunity we will look at it. Let’s see how we get there. Hopefully, the squad is going to be in a much healthier position than it is right now, but who knows? We are prepared if we need to do something, we’re capable of doing something, but then that transfer window is very tricky and difficult to control. The opportunities are very limited but we’ll be there.”
Transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano has reported that a new contract is close for Cunha, whose current deal runs out in the summer of 2027. He wrote on X: “Wolves have agreed on new deal with Matheus Cunha! Deal verbally in place for Brazilian star to extend the contract with salary improved. Despite interest from several clubs, Cunha’s set to sign as soon as official documents are checked/approved.”
Cunha has scored 26 goals and provided 13 assists in 76 appearances for Wolves, including 10 goals and four assists this season as the club fights against Premier League relegation. He will miss the next two matches after receiving a ban from the FA.
A statement reasoned: “Matheus Cunha has been suspended for two games and fined £80,000 following the Premier League fixture between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Ipswich Town on Saturday 14 December 2024. The forward was charged with misconduct and it was alleged that he acted in an improper manner after the final whistle. He admitted the charge and the sanctions were subsequently imposed by an independent Regulatory Commission.”
Fabrizio Romano tells Arsenal fans to ‘watch out’ for potential attacking signing from Dutch league
Arsenal are reportedly looking to strengthen their attacking options this month, with a move for a new winger on the cards.
Feyenoord’s Brazilian winger, Igor Paixão, has emerged as a player of considerable interest to the Gunners.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal is one of the top clubs monitoring the 24-year-old, whose performances in the Eredivisie have made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents.
Paixão’s versatility is a standout feature, as he excels on both the left and right wings. His attributes include explosive pace, excellent dribbling, and a strong ability to create and convert chances, making him a valuable addition to any attacking setup. His contributions have been crucial to Feyenoord’s domestic success, and it’s no surprise that a club of Arsenal’s stature is taking notice.
For Arsenal, Paixão’s potential acquisition could not come at a better time. Injuries to key players have left Mikel Arteta’s side short on options in wide attacking positions. While the Gunners have shown resilience in maintaining their form, adding a player like Paixão could significantly strengthen their attacking depth and help them stay competitive across all competitions.
At 24, Paixão is at a point in his career where he is ready to step up to a higher level. A move to Arsenal would provide him the opportunity to test himself in one of the world’s toughest leagues, while also contributing to a team with ambitions of winning silverware. For Arsenal, the signing would align with their strategy of bringing in young, talented players capable of making an immediate impact while offering long-term value.
Although formal negotiations have not been confirmed, Romano’s report indicates that Arsenal are serious about their interest. The club’s scouting network has been closely monitoring Paixão, and it’s believed the winger could be available for a reasonable fee, making him an attractive target for the January or summer transfer window.
With nine more games scheduled over the next 30 days, Arsenal must act quickly to add depth to their squad.
