Arsenal’s January transfer window was filled with frustration, especially regarding the pursuit of Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa. Had Al Nassr gone through with their planned move for Victor Boniface, it could have created an opening for Arsenal to land Watkins, but that didn’t happen.
Villa were open to selling one of their strikers, Watkins or Duran, given manager Unai Emery’s difficulty in fitting both into the starting lineup. Watkins, a long-time Arsenal fan, was reportedly keen on the move, but Villa’s rejection of Arsenal’s £40m bid made it clear that the Gunners would have to go higher. With Arsenal’s interest still alive, it was expected that they would submit a new offer, but the Al Nassr decision to move for Duran instead of Boniface essentially put the deal to bed.
Now, Mikel Arteta is left in a tough spot without a new forward to cover for Saka and Jesus’ injuries. With Havertz expected to lead the line for the rest of the season, and Trossard also in the mix, Arsenal’s depth is further strained, especially on the flanks where they rely heavily on Saka.
Do you think Arteta could be forced to get creative with his tactics, or do you think Arsenal might revisit the forward search in the summer?
