Arsenal have faced another transfer window without securing the clinical striker they so desperately need.
Moreover, manager Mikel Arteta expressed his disappointment, stating:
“We had a clear intention when the window opened to explore opportunities to improve our squad with players who can make an impact.” Furthermore, he emphasized that injuries had hindered their plans. Also they must remain disciplined in their pursuit of the right profile.
Previously, Arsenal bid for Ollie Watkins and explored ambitious moves for Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko. However, recent reports now suggest that the Gunners may not need to look far. According to Anfield Watch, Arsenal have maintained interest in Liverpool’s Diogo Jota. He is a player they regard as arguably the best finisher at the club. In addition, the Reds are said to be willing to negotiate for the “right fee.”
His Profile
Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Portuguese forward, remains high on Arsenal’s radar. Notably, his finishing prowess has impressed many, and he could provide the clinical edge that Arsenal currently lack. Furthermore, the report claims he is now available for a move, which has only heightened the Gunners’ interest as they look to bolster their frontline.
At Liverpool, manager Arne Slot initially installed Jota as his starting striker. However, a rib injury in October forced a change in the lineup, giving Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz the opportunity to take charge up front. Consequently, Jota’s role diminished, and his availability became increasingly sporadic as the season progressed.
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The striker’s injury woes did not end there. After returning to fitness, Jota failed to start a Premier League match and missed two league clashes in January. Moreover, despite his injuries, he remains arguably Liverpool’s most clinical forward when fit, even outperforming Mohamed Salah, who relies on a higher volume of shots to produce his goals.
As a result, Arne Slot has reportedly grown frustrated with Jota’s recurring fitness issues and lack of availability. Consequently, Jota now appears vulnerable to a summer exit, especially with only two years remaining on his contract. Furthermore, it remains questionable whether Liverpool will offer him an extension given his inconsistent injury record.
Arsenal, on the other hand, have shown a willingness to sign older players who can make an immediate impact. For instance, they bid for 29-year-old Watkins in January, proving that experience and instant quality matter. However, the Gunners must carefully weigh Jota’s exceptional finishing ability against his patchy injury record before making a commitment.
In other Arsenal news, The Daily Mirror has claimed that Arteta could axe as many as seven first-team stars to fund a major summer splurge. Specifically, the report suggests that loan pair Neto and Raheem Sterling will not return, while Kieran Tierney, Jorginho, and Thomas Partey are expected to leave via free agency.
Additionally, defensive duo Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior are reportedly available for sale after featuring in only four league games combined this season. Finally, the debate continues with the poll: Who was Edu’s best Arsenal signing?
