Owen Hargreaves has expressed confusion over Arsenal’s failure to pursue Victor Osimhen in the January transfer window, believing the striker could have provided the goal-scoring edge Mikel Arteta’s side desperately needs.
Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal were evident again in their 1-1 draw against Manchester United, where Declan Rice’s equalizer salvaged a point. Despite creating chances, the Gunners lacked a clinical finisher, a problem that has contributed to their winless run in three league games. Injuries to key attackers have only worsened their situation, forcing Arteta to deploy Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker.
During the winter transfer window, Arsenal’s only serious attempt to reinforce their attack was a failed bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins. The club is expected to revisit the striker market in the summer, with Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko among their targets.
Hargreaves, however, believes they should have acted sooner and explored the possibility of signing Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli. “If you look at Arsenal, they have a player like Declan Rice in every position except in attack, and that’s the most important one,” Hargreaves told Premier League Productions. “Osimhen is on loan in Turkey.
Even a six-month loan would have been an audition to see if he fits.” The Nigerian international has been in outstanding form, scoring 17 goals in 21 league games, helping Galatasaray establish a seven-point lead at the top of the Super Lig table. His performances have also attracted interest from Manchester United and Chelsea.
Despite speculation about his future, Osimhen remains focused on his current club. “To be honest, I don’t know what will happen in the summer,” he said. “Nobody expected me to join Galatasaray, but I’m really enjoying my time here.” Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Ian Wright believes a striker in the mold of Harry Kane would have made a significant difference in their title challenge.
“Declan Rice plays with Harry Kane for England he sees someone who takes one chance and scores,” Wright said. “If Arsenal had a Kane-type player, they’d be much closer to Liverpool. Those extra goals could easily mean 12 more points this season.” With Arsenal now 15 points behind Liverpool, their lack of firepower may have cost them a serious shot at the Premier League title.