Former Tottenham and Chelsea star Glenn Hoddle has told Arsenal exactly where they need to strengthen in the January transfer window.
It comes after Arsenal’s frustrating draw with Fulham, where the Gunners were held at 1-1 away at Craven Cottage.
Mikel Arteta’s side were losing early in the game as Raul Jimenez gave the home team the lead, though they were soon pegged back by William Saliba.
Chances were flowing in the second half, but nothing quite went Arsenal’s way, including a last-gasp winner that was ruled out by VAR.
For many, it emphasised the transfer issues that have to be solved ahead of the January window in the weeks ahead.
Glenn Hoddle on Arsenal striker transfer
Arsenal’s transfer chase for a striker has been on the cards for a while, with plenty of different links appearing over a possible deal.
Whether it’s Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak or Victor Osimhen, it’s clear that those games where fine margins are decided is where the Gunners miss a clinical forward.
It’s something that former Chelsea and Tottenham man Glenn Hoddle was keen to stress when he discussed the side’s troubles.
He said on Premier League productions: “If they [Arsenal] get a number nine, for me if they get a proper number nine and they keep that threat from set-plays, my word they’re going to give themselves a real chance.
“Where that number nine comes from and whether they can get one in January, I’m not so sure.”
It underlines a point many have made for the past few seasons, but has become even more evident in recent weeks.
While many would point towards the chances created from open play as a reason for the lack of goals, teams have setup to defend deep and block out the Gunners.
As a result, fewer chances are likely to appear and would lean more towards a player who can make the most of them, rather than another playmaker who can make more of them.
Will Arsenal sign a striker in the January transfer window?
With the January transfer window around the corner, many are wondering if Arsenal have the ability to push for a striker signing.
The Gunners may have the ability to push for a deal or two, but there is no guarantee that a big-money signing is likely to walk through the door.
With Profit and Sustainability Rules even more relevant than ever, the club may well avoid any huge deals that put them under pressure before the new financial year in football rolls around.
That’s in July, which means there may be some wait before Arsenal finally sign that striker everyone has been craving for.
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