As the January transfer window is set to reopen, a number of transfers have been linked with Arsenal. Though their first and foremost priority has been signing a striker, a couple of targets have shown that they would not be coming to the club. Here's a breakdown of the latest transfer news regarding Arsenal's striker hunt and other updates:
- Alexander Isak: Out of Reach for Arsenal
One of the names that has most often been put in connection with Arsenal is Alexander Isak from Newcastle, who this season is in a class of his own. The Swedish forward has scored in seven consecutive Premier League matches, and has shown why he is considered one of the best strikers in the league.
Despite the excitement surrounding a potential move, Isak recently revealed that playing for Newcastle, with its passionate fanbase, is a dream come true for him. Isak's comments to Prime Video Sweden further solidify his commitment to the Magpies, making a transfer to Arsenal highly unlikely. His market value, pegged at around £150 million, only adds to the challenge. While pundit Paul Merson has urged Arsenal to "break the bank" for Isak, it seems the Gunners will have to look elsewhere for their striker reinforcement.
2. Matheus Cunha: Staying at Wolves
Another striker who had been linked with a move to Arsenal was Wolves' Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian forward has been one of the standout performers this season, notching 10 goals and four assists in the Premier League. However, Arsenal's hopes of bringing Cunha to North London were dashed when the player agreed to remain at Wolves after verbally committing to a new contract under the club's new manager Vitor Pereira. Cunha's decision means that he will continue his development at Wolves, further frustrating Arsenal's search for a striker this January.
3. Kieran Tierney: Returning to Celtic
While not a striker, another Arsenal player in the transfer rumor mill is Kieran Tierney. The left-back is reportedly heading back to Celtic, where he rose through the ranks before becoming a key player at Arsenal. Hardly featuring this season, the Scottish left-back seems on course to make a return to his beloved Celtic. This transfer is likely to be one of the first transfers of the January window for Arsenal as they continue to reshape their squad.
Conclusion: Arsenal's Striker Hunt Continues
While Arsenal's search for a striker remains a priority, both Alexander Isak and Matheus Cunha appear out of reach this January. With Isak signing with Newcastle and Cunha remaining at Wolves, Mikel Arteta and co. will need to look elsewhere. Meanwhile, the probable exit of Kieran Tierney to Celtic further reiterates the dynamics that seem to be shifting at the club. Arsenal will need to act fast to get their squad ready for the second half of the season.
Arsenal Transfer News: Top 3 Striker Targets and Updates for January