Mikel Arteta emphasizes the urgency for Arsenal to acquire new talent, highlighting the necessity for ‘help’ in their quest for the Premier League title.
The Gunners face critical challenges in the January transfer window due to injuries sustained by key players Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.
Star winger Saka is anticipated to be sidelined until at least March after undergoing hamstring surgery.
In addition, Jesus has also had surgery and could be out for up to a year due to a second rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament.
With Arsenal trailing league leaders Liverpool by six points and missing two pivotal attackers, fans are eager for new signings to enhance creativity in their absence.
There are also concerns that Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard may suffer injuries, as the trio has had minimal rest over the last month.
During his pre-match press conference ahead of Saturday’s match against Wolves, Arteta reiterated his need for new signings when asked if acquiring a forward is essential.
He stated: “My message is clear; we lost two very important players – Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.
“We are lacking goals, options in the front line, and it’s evident.”
When questioned further about the necessity of strengthening their attack, Arteta responded: “If we can find the right player, that’s why we are actively looking.”
“Not just any player; we need someone who will enhance our team and make an impact.”
“It’s evident that during the time we are without them [Saka and Jesus], we ideally require additional support.”
“We were already very short on players, and now we are even shorter, but the team is managing.”
“However, we must act in the best interest of the club.”
Arteta also mentioned that he has been consulting with his current players about potential signings, indicating that their insights are valuable in the search for the ideal forward.
“I always do this, especially if they know the players, as it helps us move beyond data and into real-world insights,” he explained.
“I’ve observed this; I sense it. A player may score many goals, but how does he react when he hasn’t scored in six or seven games? This is what I find important.”
“What types of goals does he score? Against which teams and in what situations? Is it in the first half or second half? Does he only score with his right foot or with headers, or only in open spaces? Is he comfortable with the physical demands of this league?”
“There are many factors to consider. When a player has spent considerable time with another player, that information is invaluable.”
Nevertheless, Arteta acknowledged the real possibility that Arsenal may not secure new signings, a notion that may alarm fans.
He noted: “That’s a possibility; it does not solely depend on us. It is not just about Arsenal, Mikel, or our intentions.”
“It is contingent on the market and various other factors.”
Arsenal is actively pursuing transfer opportunities this January, with club legend David Seaman stating to talkSPORT that they are ‘trying earnestly’ to secure a striker.
Reports indicate that RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is being considered, with the Gunners making inquiries regarding the £70 million-rated 21-year-old.
Additionally, there is interest in Wolves’ adaptable forward Matheus Cunha, who can play on either wing or as a No. 8 or No. 10.
Cunha has hesitated to sign a new contract at Molineux, which has captured Arsenal’s attention for a potential transfer.
When asked about the Brazilian ahead of a possible confrontation with the 25-year-old this weekend, Arteta chose to remain tight-lipped.
He simply remarked: “I prefer not to discuss individual players.”
However, with the clock ticking down, Arteta understands that if he wishes to end Arsenal’s 21-year title drought in the Premier League, the club must invest decisively before the transfer window closes.
