Arsenal’s January transfer business didn’t go anywhere near as planned as the club missed out on bolstering their forward ranks.
It came as Mikel Arteta wanted new options to help deal with injuries and the goal-scoring issues the Gunners have faced.
Whether Arsenal could’ve got their first targets or not, it was unlikely that those on the radar could make the switch.
One name that did pop up though was that of Jhon Duran, who was rumoured with a possible exit from Aston Villa.
While Arsenal showed interest in Duran, he snubbed the North London outfit, making a move to Saudi Arabia instead, where he has already made an impact.
Former Arsenal transfer target Jhon Duran impresses on Al Nassr debut
Arsenal transfer target Jhon Duran made a £64million move to Al Nassr, joining up with Cristiano Ronaldo at the Saudi Pro League club.
The Gunners could’ve landed the 21-year-old but would’ve faced a challenge to bring the centre-forward to the club.
Instead, his switch to Saudi Arabia has become an instant success, with a dream debut for the Colombian international.
He scored twice for Al Nassr, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, in a 3-0 win over Al Feiha to get off to a great start.
It’s an immediate impact from the centre-forward, who could’ve done so for Arsenal instead if a move was made.
It remains to be seen whether Duran can continue to progress and hit the heights in the Saudi Pro League, the same way he was in the Premier League and the Champions League.
- READ MORE: Expert reveals Arsenal ace’s loan has been ‘positive’ but his future under Mikel Arteta is in doubt
Would Jhon Duran have fit at Arsenal following transfer?
Arsenal have been looking for a centre-forward for some time now, with the side unable to pick up the one they want.
Duran, however, appeared to be much more of a market opportunity rather than a first-choice option once it became apparent he could leave in January.
The 21-year-old has an ideal age profile while possessing great strength and finishing abilities, which would work well for Arsenal.
However, competition from Saudi Arabia was always going to make it difficult to compete on a financial standpoint.
On top of that, there are questions over how well he would fit in a rigid system like that of Mikel Arteta’s, while Duran thrives from creating chaos.
In all, it perhaps was a wise move to avoid the move for the striker, though the opportunity was there to land him.
All eyes are now on the summer though, where a big striker switch is now demanded and expected from the Arsenal fans.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
