Arsenal Transfer News
With Arsenal prepared to take on Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup quarter-final, action is already turning to the January transfer window. There is less than two weeks to go until the window opens, and Arsenal wants a strong squad for the second half of the season with an attack that needs improvements.
A goalless draw against Everton on Saturday served to crystallize the feeling that something must be done to improve Mikel Arteta's side's attacking output. The struggles in front of goal from Gabriel Jesus have restarted talk of another forward being required at Arsenal. Although their set-piece efficiency has been great, play in open positions needs much improvement. This may well be the spur for the Gunners to act this winter.
Kudus in Arsenal's Sights
One player who could find himself in the sights of the Gunners is West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus. talkSPORT reports that Arsenal might make a big-money offer for the Ghana international in January. Having joined West Ham from Ajax for £38 million in summer 2023, Kudus has had a good season thus far, with two goals and two assists in 13 appearances. His overall record for West Ham stands at 16 goals and eight assists in 58 games.
The £85 million release clause of the 23-year-old, which will be activated this summer, may prompt Arsenal to act early and get his signature before that price tag goes even higher. With a contract running until 2028, the move would likely require Arsenal to sell a player to fund the deal. Leandro Trossard, who has previously attracted interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, is one player who could be sold to make room for Kudus.
Kiwior's Possible Exit
The other twist in the transfer saga at Arsenal is that of Jakub Kiwior, whose stay at the club is reported to be under scrutiny. The Polish international has failed to break into the starting lineup this season, and according to reports emanating from Italy, he has instructed his representatives to find him a new club. Kiwior has been rumored to return to Serie A, with Napoli said to be interested in acquiring his services. However, Arsenal is unlikely to let anyone go mid-season, with Arteta wanting depth for the rest of the campaign.
Rice Injury Update
In other Arsenal news, midfielder Declan Rice is expected to be fit to face Crystal Palace on Wednesday. Rice was taken off against Everton after sustaining an injury but Arteta was optimistic in his pre-match press conference, and does not think the injury is too serious.
As the transfer window opens in January, Arsenal's intentions of bolstering their ranks will come under the microscope. Keep tabs on more transfer news and rumors on the Gunners.
