Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, seems to have finally lost confidence in Gabriel Jesus as rumors intensify regarding his renewed pursuit of one of Europe’s most in-demand strikers. This season, the Brazilian has yet to find the back of the net in eight appearances, further highlighting his disappointing performance in an Arsenal kit.
When he joined Arsenal from Manchester City for £45 million in the summer of 2022, fans regarded the forward as a vital acquisition. However, he has managed to score only 19 goals in 77 games since then.
Furthermore, his tenure in north London has been marred by injuries, having already been sidelined for two weeks this season due to a hamstring injury.
His future at Arsenal seemed uncertain last summer as the club was linked with players like Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyökeres, and Benjamin Sesko. Nonetheless, a transfer for a high-profile striker did not happen, as Arteta chose to strengthen other positions, bringing in Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino.
Interest in Sesko, in particular, appeared to wane in June after he signed a new contract with Red Bull Leipzig, extending his stay until 2029. Additionally, he had a lackluster performance at Euro 2024, failing to score for his national team in any of their four matches.
Nevertheless, the 21-year-old has made a sensational start to the current season, scoring six goals, including a brace in the Champions League against Juventus. His outstanding form seems to have encouraged Arteta to consider a bid in 2025.
As reported by TEAMtalk, the two clubs have already initiated discussions and have reached a preliminary agreement. Despite Sesko’s recent contract renewal, it reportedly includes a £55 million release clause, and Arsenal has been informed that they can prioritize negotiations as soon as the clause is triggered.
Sesko also seems to align with Arteta’s current strategy at Arsenal. The Spaniard has concentrated on recruiting younger talent, with the striker being touted as a future star at both the club and international levels.
Since his transfer to the German club from sister outfit Red Bull Salzburg, Sesko has netted 24 goals in 51 club matches. Despite his challenges this summer, his scoring record for Slovenia remains impressive, with 15 goals in 35 appearances.
Even after leading the club to consecutive second-place finishes in the Premier League, Arteta continues to face criticism regarding his team’s lack of a clinical finisher, essential for securing the club’s first league title in 21 years. Bukayo Saka was the team’s leading scorer for the 2023/24 season with 20 goals.
Currently, Kai Havertz is steering the attack, having scored six times across all competitions. In contrast, Jesus has not scored since Arsenal’s Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest on January 30, 2024.
Arteta’s Doubts Grow as Arsenal Eyes New Striker Amid Jesus Struggles
Overview of Arsenal’s Current Situation
As the 2024 season progresses, Arsenal finds itself in a precarious position regarding its attacking options. With Gabriel Jesus struggling to find his form, Mikel Arteta’s confidence in his squad is being tested. The Gunners are allegedly exploring the transfer market for a new striker, raising questions about the team’s depth and future ambitions.
The Impact of Jesus’ Performance on Arsenal
Gabriel Jesus has had a mixed bag of performances since joining Arsenal. Initially seen as a transformative signing, his recent struggles have placed significant pressure on Mikel Arteta. Here are some key points surrounding the situation:
- Inconsistent Form: Jesus has faced issues with injuries and form, leading to a dip in his goal-scoring ability.
- Pressure on Arteta: With the team’s aspirations for silverware, Arteta’s tactical decisions are under scrutiny, particularly regarding player selection.
- Fan Expectations: Supporters have high expectations for the Gunners, which intensifies the urgency to find a reliable striker.
Why Arsenal Needs a New Striker
The need for a new striker is becoming increasingly evident for several reasons:
- Injury Concerns: Jesus’ injury history raises doubts about his availability for crucial matches.
- Lack of Depth: Arsenal’s attacking options are limited, making it essential to have more than one reliable forward.
- Competition in the League: With rivals strengthening their squads, Arsenal must keep pace to remain competitive in the Premier League.
Potential Transfer Targets for Arsenal
As Arsenal scouts the market, several names have emerged as potential targets. Here are some players who could fit Arteta’s vision:
| Player | Current Club | Goals Last Season | Estimated Transfer Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Victor Osimhen | Napoli | 26 | €100m |
| Ivan Toney | Brentford | 20 | €50m |
| Rasmus Hojlund | Atalanta | 15 | €60m |
| Youssef En-Nesyri | Sevilla | 12 | €30m |
Arteta’s Tactical Options
With the prospect of bringing in a new striker, Mikel Arteta must evaluate how to integrate new talent into his system effectively. Here are some tactical considerations:
- 4-2-3-1 Formation: This setup allows for a lone striker with support from wingers and attacking midfielders.
- Fluid Front Line: A versatile striker could enhance Arsenal’s ability to adapt during matches, switching between different attacking roles.
- Pressing System: Arteta’s emphasis on pressing requires a forward who can sustain high energy levels and contribute defensively.
Benefits of Signing a New Striker
Bringing in a new striker can provide several advantages for Arsenal:
- Increased Goal Scoring: A prolific striker can help boost the team’s overall goal tally.
- Enhanced Team Morale: New signings often invigorate the squad, raising competition for places and improving performance.
- Long-Term Planning: Securing a young, talented striker can be a key element in Arsenal’s strategy to build a team capable of competing for titles.
Case Studies: Successful Striker Transfers
Examining previous successful striker transfers can provide insights into what Arsenal should look for:
- Harry Kane to Tottenham: His immediate impact on the club’s performance demonstrated the value of investing in a proven goalscorer.
- Erling Haaland to Manchester City: His extraordinary goal record showcases the transformative effect a top striker can have on a team’s fortunes.
First-Hand Experience: The Importance of Depth in Attack
Players and coaches often emphasize the necessity for depth in attacking positions. Here’s what some former players have said:
- Thierry Henry: “Having options in attack is crucial. It spreads the responsibility and puts pressure on the opposition.”
- Ian Wright: “Injuries are part of the game, and it’s essential to have players ready to step up when called upon.”
Conclusion and Future Outlook
As the season unfolds, the pressure mounts for Arteta to make the right decisions regarding Arsenal’s striking options. The Gunners must act decisively in the transfer market to ensure they have the necessary firepower to compete at the highest level.
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