Newcastle proved why Edu must sign star who stunned Pep Guardiola to keep Arsenal title dream alive

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Arsenal lacked attacking quality as they slumped to a 1-0 defeat against Newcastle United on Saturday afternoon. 

Arsenal only managed one shot on target at St James’ Park, as the likes of Gabriel Martinelli, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Leandro Trossard all failed to breach the Tyneside outfit’s defence. 

Mikel Arteta could not inspire an upturn in his team’s attacking fortunes from the bench, either. Arsenal’s substitutions against Newcastle highlighted the lack of quality attacking options in the squad. 

Arsenal are now very much on the back foot when it comes to the title race. If they are to stand any chance of being crowned champions this time around, then Arteta will need to add some cutting edge to his ranks.

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Arsenal must sign Antoine Semenyo

The Gunners need to add goal threat to their squad in the upcoming January transfer window, and must hope that they are still in title contention by the time the winter market opens.

Sporting director Edu Gaspar must do all he can to bring Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo to the Emirates Stadium. 

Arsenal have been linked with Semenyo before, and for good reason. The Ghanaian forward has been in blistering form so far this season. 

In ten Premier League outings the 24-year-old has racked up four goals and one assist. He found the back of the net again on Saturday, as the Cherries pulled off a shock win over Manchester City. 

Bournemouth’s surprise triumph against Pep Guardiola’s reigning champions will have offered some small comfort to Arteta, as this result prevented the Cityzens from taking advantage of Arsenal’s own defeat and widening the gap between the two sides.

Why Arsenal need Semenyo

Semenyo’s all round game was excellent against Manchester City, as the right-winger was a constant menace to the opposition defence.

Semenyo played with a freedom, flair, and directness that the Gunners lacked against Newcastle.

The 25-cap Ghana international would add some much-needed depth to Arteta’s squad. Raheem Sterling has been unable to provide a reliable alternative to Saka on the right flank since arriving from Chelsea on loan. 

Semenyo would be able to provide greater competition for Saka, and is also comfortable on the opposite wing, where he would be able to challenge Trossard and Martinelli for a starting role.