Manager has already told Arsenal five reasons why ‘magnificent’ transfer target must be signed – but there’s a problem

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Arsenal must kick on in the January transfer window as Mikel Arteta’s squad shortages become clear.

After Arsenal’s Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle, it became abundantly clear that the Gunners are lacking inspiration going forward.

The North Londoners failed to score from 23 shots on goal, with several Arsenal players struggling to perform in the cup semi-final first leg. 

It’s back to the drawing board for Arteta, who must realise that part of his squad’s issue can’t be solved in-house.

• READ MORE: Latest Arsenal transfer news and rumours as Man United swap deal emerges amid Lee Kang-In loan stance

Luis Enrique outlines Arsenal target Kang-in Lee’s strengths 

Arsenal need to sign an attacker this winter and fortunately, the January transfer window is open to be exploited.

Arteta hinted at the attacking quality Arsenal are missing by praising Alexander Isak’s clinical streak at the Emirates, with several targets linked to the Gunners.

Arsenal are said to appreciate Kang-in Lee of Paris Saint-Germain, a versatile forward capable of playing on the right wing, where Bukayo Saka is missing due to injury.

The 23-year-old Korean joined PSG in the summer of 2023 and is now said to be a target of Arsenal.

Lee is highly rated in Paris, as manager Luis Enrique explained back in November 2023 when speaking about the forward, outlining five of his key strengths.

“He is a magnificent signing from Luis Campos and the club,” Enrique told the media [03/11/2023].

“Kang-in Lee is very attractive to the fans because he makes an effort, does not lose the ball, resists pressure, scores goals, and gives assists. He has a great hunger to play. This hunger is very important for the development of a player.”

All of the attributes that Enrique credited the player as having are what Arsenal require right now, although, the transfer won’t be easy to achieve.

Can Arsenal sign Kang-in Lee?

The Athletic reported interest in Lee, noting that an initial loan with an obligation to buy would best suit Arsenal this winter. 

That being said, a fresh update has presented a sizeable stumbling block to the Gunners’ pursuit, as journalist Fabrizio Romano explained.

Romano said, “Despite interest from two Premier League clubs, PSG are not considering to let Kang-in Lee leave in January. Club’s position remains clear as he’s highly rated by the club.”

Whether Arsenal feel that they can pry the Korean away from the Parisiens is yet to be known, in what could be an interesting situation to follow this month.