Arsenal’s Premier League title push has taken a major hit after Kai Havertz suffered a serious hamstring injury during the club’s warm-weather training camp in Dubai. The German international is expected to miss the rest of the season, leaving Mikel Arteta’s side without a recognized striker.
The Gunners were already dealing with the long-term absence of Gabriel Jesus, who suffered an ACL injury in January. Now, with Havertz sidelined and Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli also battling fitness issues, Arsenal’s attacking options are stretched thin.
At present, the only available forwards in the squad are Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling. The January transfer window offered an opportunity to strengthen, but Arsenal failed to secure a deal for top targets like Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko, and Ollie Watkins. With the window now closed, the club may be forced to explore free-agent options.
While not ideal, Arsenal could look at experienced free agents to help ease their striker crisis. Here are four potential short-term solutions:
A Premier League veteran with Chelsea, Costa’s physicality and experience could be useful in Arsenal’s attack.
However, injuries have plagued him in recent years, and he managed just one goal in 25 appearances during his last English stint with Wolves.
A former Real Madrid forward, Díaz had a breakout season with Lyon in 2017-18 but struggled for game time upon returning to Spain. He’s been without a club since last summer after failing to score in 13 games for Sevilla
The youngest of the bunch, Gómez was once a promising striker in La Liga with Celta Vigo and Valencia. However, his goal return has declined in recent years, and he failed to score in 31 league games while on loan at Cádiz last season.
Arguably the most prolific option, Ben Yedder netted 20 goals for Monaco last season. However, his availability comes with controversy—he received a suspended two-year prison sentence for sexual assault in 2023.
With crucial matches ahead, Arteta faces a tough decision. Will Arsenal push through without a natural striker, or will they take a gamble on a free agent? Either way, their attacking struggles could make or break their title ambitions in the coming weeks.