Arsenal's January Window Quiet as Arteta Details Striker Philosophy
With the January transfer window rapidly approaching its conclusion, Arsenal appear set for a notably quiet month of business. The Gunners, who currently lead both the Premier League and Champions League, are not anticipated to complete any further signings following Ethan Nwaneri's loan departure to Marseille.
Arteta's Blueprint for the Perfect Number Nine
Manager Mikel Arteta has publicly outlined the specific attributes he seeks in a centre-forward, explaining the rationale behind last summer's acquisition of Viktor Gyokeres over alternative target Benjamin Sesko. Arsenal secured Gyokeres from Sporting CP for £64 million, while Manchester United later signed Sesko from RB Leipzig for £73.3 million.
When questioned about the essential qualities for his ideal striker, Arteta provided a detailed response: "Well, first of all, goals. Someone that can guarantee you goals. We know that word doesn't exist, but then someone very direct, very powerful, a proper nine who can stretch the pitch, who has the goal between the eyes, and somebody that can stretch the pitch for us a bit more, especially when we have to play against certain opposition."
Regarding Gyokeres' adaptation period in English football, Arteta urged patience: "It's very early to assess. I mean, let's assess at the end of the season and something like that is even a very short sample. Understanding as well the league that we are competing and what is happening with the nines across the league as well, in the manner that the game is changing. So there are a lot of factors there to bear in mind to assess the player and then we're going to assess the player not only with one of the aspects of the game but in many aspects of the game."
Summer Planning Underway with £35m Release Clause in Focus
While immediate activity is limited, Arsenal's sporting director Andrea Berta is actively preparing for the summer transfer window. The club's focus is understood to be on recruiting forwards and left-wingers to bolster the squad.
Among the potential targets is Levante striker Karl Etta Eyong. The 22-year-old Cameroonian has impressed in La Liga this season, registering six goals and three assists across 17 appearances. His performances have reportedly attracted attention from several elite clubs, including Manchester United, Barcelona, and Real Madrid.
A significant factor in any potential move is Etta Eyong's contract situation. The forward reportedly has a release clause valued at £26 million for Spanish clubs, which increases to £35 million for teams outside La Liga. He remains under contract with Levante until 2029, providing the Spanish side with strong negotiating leverage.
This strategic, forward-planning approach follows an unprecedented summer of investment where Arsenal spent over £250 million, creating what Arteta describes as a "near-bulletproof squad" filled with quality. This depth has reduced the immediate pressure for mid-season reinforcements, despite the manager's previous frustrations with quiet January windows that coincided with second-half campaign stumbles.
