Opinion

Three players Mikel Arteta must sign in January as Arsenal’s ‘dream striker’ could make transfer switch

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Arsenal head into the January transfer window in need of reinforcements, with the side looking depleted on quality in depth.

The Gunners will be looking to land some big opportunities in the market, given how awkward it can be to operate in.

Due to the timing of the window, teams are often looking to move on players that are unwanted, while others in demand are priced high or completely unavailable due to aims mid-season.

It means Arsenal may need to work smart to find those who are available and can make an impact at the Emirates Stadium.

So with that said, here’s a look at three options Mikel Arteta must sign in the upcoming January transfer window.

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Jonathan David

With Arsenal looking to sign a striker, there will be few top options available to sign at a reasonable price this January.

One who could be on the market is Jonathan David, with the striker entering the final six months of his contract at LOSC Lille.

If the Gunners agree on a pre-contract deal, then they will be able to land him for free in the summer but could push for a cut-price move in January as a result.

David has scored 101 goals in just over 200 appearances for his current club, while he is still just 24 and able to grow even further.

Omar Marmoush

Arsenal have been linked with a transfer for Omar Marmoush and for good reason too, with the Egyptian forward impressing in recent months.

The 25-year-old is versatile, playing on the left, right and upfront if required, hitting the heights with Eintracht Frankfurt.

So far this season, Marmoush has 13 goals and eight assists in 15 Bundesliga appearances, while he has five goals and four assists across other cup competitions.

With his all-round play being quite impressive, the other thing the winger has in his armoury is a pinpoint free-kick.

With Arsenal already being the kings of set-pieces, adding a direct option on top of quality in depth in the forward ranks can only make them better.

Martin Zubimendi

It’s unlikely, due to how the finances would work, but Arsenal should also add the final piece missing from their midfield puzzle by signing Martin Zubimendi.

The Spaniard has a release clause in his contract that could allow him to leave Real Sociedad in favour of the Emirates Stadium.

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Zubimendi is capable of dropping to receive the ball from the backline, before evading the press and picking out the right pass to progress the ball.

With some possible exits in the midfield ahead, the Euro 2024 winner could bolster the ranks while also allowing the likes of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino to play further forward.