Arsenal’s Premier League title aspirations took a significant hit after a disappointing 1-0 defeat to West Ham. The loss, coupled with Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, left the Gunners trailing the league leaders by 11 points.
With injuries hampering key players like Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Kai Havertz, Arsenal’s squad depth has been exposed. Despite their struggles, the club opted against making any signings in the January transfer window, raising concerns about their ability to maintain a title challenge.
This failure to reinforce the squad has sparked calls from football pundits and former players for Arsenal to invest in a reliable goal-scorer before the next campaign.
Lineker and Shearer Demand Striker Reinforcement
Premier League legends Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have both emphasized the need for Arsenal to sign a top-class striker to reignite their title challenge.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer pointed to Napoli’s Victor Osimhen as an ideal candidate, praising the Nigerian’s goal-scoring ability. However, he cautioned that Arsenal could face financial obstacles in securing a deal. “The world knows Arsenal need a striker. A player worth £60-70 million will now cost £100-110 million when Arsenal come calling,” Shearer warned.
Lineker, on the other hand, suggested Arsenal look closer to home. He singled out Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap as a potential option, lauding the young striker’s movement and adaptability. “I like his movement,” Lineker said. “If Ipswich go down, he’s likely to leave, and Arsenal should make a move.”
Liam Delap’s Rising Stock
Liam Delap has enjoyed an impressive debut Premier League season with Ipswich Town, despite the club’s struggles. The 21-year-old has been one of their standout performers, showcasing his physicality, goal-scoring instinct, and ability to lead the line.
Shearer echoed Lineker’s sentiments, highlighting Delap’s potential to develop into a top striker. “He’s had a good season and brings strength and positivity. In a year or two, he could be a huge asset for a top club,” Shearer stated.
If Ipswich suffer relegation, Delap could be available at a reasonable price, making him a viable target for Arsenal as they seek to strengthen their attacking options.
Other Striker Options for Arsenal
While Delap presents an intriguing domestic option, Arsenal have also been linked with other high-profile strikers, including Newcastle’s Alexander Isak.
However, Shearer cast doubt on the likelihood of Arsenal securing Isak, given Newcastle’s ambitions. “I don’t think Arsenal can afford him,” he said. “If Newcastle qualify for the Champions League and win a trophy, why would Isak want to leave?”
Osimhen remains an elite option, but the financial demands of signing him could prove a major stumbling block. With clubs aware of Arsenal’s desperation for a striker, any move for a marquee name will come at a hefty price.
Arteta Faces Crucial Summer Decisions
As Arsenal’s title challenge continues to falter, Mikel Arteta is under increasing pressure to address the team’s attacking deficiencies. The club cannot afford another season without a clinical striker capable of delivering goals consistently.
Whether Arsenal opt for an established name like Osimhen or take a gamble on a rising talent like Delap, one thing is clear—their ambitions of winning the Premier League hinge on strengthening their frontline. If they fail to act decisively, their chances of competing with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City will only diminish further.