Mikel Arteta has suggested that Arsenal could still sign a striker before the transfer window closes, though he acknowledges that their ambitions may not align with what’s realistically achievable.
The Gunners have been searching for attacking reinforcements throughout January, especially after Gabriel Jesus’ knee injury increased their urgency.
However, attempts to sign Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins have fallen through, while Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko are unlikely to be attainable.
Sunday’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Manchester City showcased Arsenal’s firepower, but the absence of a natural centre-forward remains a concern.
When asked if a new striker will arrive before Monday’s deadline, Arteta reiterated his desire for reinforcements but was cautious about what might happen.
“I don’t know,” he told Sky Sports. “My focus was on preparing for Man City. Now that’s done, we’ll discuss the situation as we always do before our next game against Newcastle. We’ve made our intentions clear, but there’s also the reality of what’s possible.”
Pressed on whether a late signing could materialize, he responded, “It’s always possible.”
One name still in play is Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel, with the 19-year-old attracting interest from several Premier League clubs. Manchester United, Tottenham, and Chelsea have all been linked, but his future remains uncertain.
Bayern have rejected a loan bid from United, while Tel himself turned down a £50m move to Spurs. Sky Sports reports that a transfer could still happen in the final hours of the window, but both the player and the club must be convinced before any deal is finalized.