This summer, Arsenal is once again aiming to purchase a striker for Arteta, with a budget exceeding £50 million.
Arsenal’s difficulties in the attacking line are evident when considering two significant matches in their recent history: a goalless draw against Manchester City and a 1-0 defeat against Bayern Munich, resulting in a 3-2 aggregate exit from the Champions League. In crucial moments where Mikel Arteta required goals, none of his forwards demonstrated clinical finishing.
It appears that those at The Emirates are actively seeking to address this issue, as evidenced by emerging links to players like Ivan Toney. However, it’s uncertain whether the Brentford striker will indeed make the move. If Toney doesn’t join, another option could be Viktor Gyokeres who has showcased impressive performances as one of the top strikers in Europe this season with Sporting CP.
Both options indeed hold promise, but reports indicate that Arsenal is refocusing on a long-standing target. According to Tuttosport, Arsenal is back in contention to sign Dusan Vlahovic in a deal worth €60m (£51m) this summer. However, the Gunners will proceed cautiously, wary of potential rejection, as Vlahovic, previously turned down a move to Arsenal before joining Juventus in January 2022, disappointing Arsenal fans.
With Vlahovic back on Arsenal’s radar, he may have the opportunity to overcome a somewhat inconsistent period at Juventus and secure a move to the Premier League. In this new setting, the forward could swiftly establish himself as a decisive player, potentially fulfilling the role that Jesus is currently struggling to justify, despite his reported wage demands of €12m-a-year (£200k per week).
It’s uncertain how Vlahovic’s potential move would impact Jesus at this point, as the Brazilian is eager to rediscover his goal-scoring form before the summer transfer window. Nonetheless, having depth is always advantageous for a club like Arsenal. Transitioning from a situation with few reliable options upfront to having several capable players could be crucial for success on all fronts next season.
Vlahovic would indeed be embraced in the Premier League, given his quality. Micah Richards, speaking on BBC Radio Five Live via The Independent in 2021, praised Vlahovic, stating, “I have watched him a couple of times now. He is lightning. It’s ridiculous. He has got 16 in 18 this season. His left foot is like a wand. I am telling you now, he is everything, he is everything you need.”
Certainly, Arsenal will be eager for Vlahovic to live up to such high praise if they secure his signature this summer. Bringing an end to their striker concerns and having a player of Vlahovic’s caliber could significantly bolster their squad.
