As Arsenal look to reclaim top spot in the Premier League, the need for a prolific goal scorer, a ‘killer’ in front of goal, is more apparent than ever. This sentiment, recently echoed by club legend Ian Wright, highlights a significant area for improvement in the Gunners’ squad. Whether it’s now or in the summer, it’s clearly on the clubs agenda.
Let’s explore five centre forwards who could fill this crucial role for Arsenal.
1 – Ivan Toney (Brentford)
Toney has been a revelation for Brentford. Known for his commanding physical presence, exceptional hold-up play, and aerial threat, he has a knack for scoring goals in a variety of ways. His transition from the Championship to the Premier League has been seamless, suggesting he could adapt well to a top club like Arsenal. What complicates things is his recent ban, and lack of football. It seems he’s unlikely to sign a new contract so would only have one year remaining in the summer. Arsenal’s recent business with Brentford for David Raya may help give the club an edge in negotiations. One downside is Toney’s age, turning 28 in March and given the price Brentford are looking to demand for him, it doesn’t fit the mould of recent Arsenal purchases.
2 – Joshua Zirkzee (Bologna)
Zirkzee is a product of the renowned Bayern Munich youth system but he has since moved on to Bologna and is now excelling in Serie A. He combines technical prowess with a keen sense of positioning, making him a constant threat in the box. Arsenal have worked with Bologna previously, in a deal that saw Takehiro Tomiyasu join the Gunners. The 22-year-old is perhaps less of a ‘killer’ than some of the other options on this list, but his age and all round ability in terms of link-up would likely appeal to Mikel Arteta.
3 – Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
Osimhen has been a standout performer in Serie A for several years now. Known for his explosive pace and lethal finishing ability. His style of play, characterised by quick movements and the ability to evade defenders, would add an exciting new element to Arsenal’s attack. This style probably fits the ‘killer’ mould more than any other player on the list. His performances in Italy have shown he has the potential to be a top striker in any of Europe’s major leagues. But could he transition immediately to the Premier League demands, and does his all-round game enable him to contribute enough in build up play to satisfy Mikel?
4 – Dominic Solanke (AFC Bournemouth)
Since leaving Liverpool, Solanke has rejuvenated his career at Bournemouth, where he’s become a prolific goal scorer. His robust playing style and ability to find the net consistently, especially in tight spaces, make him a valuable asset. His experience in the Premier League with Liverpool and Bournemouth means he wouldn’t need much time to adjust at Arsenal. Like Toney, he’s a slightly older option in comparison to others, turning 27 in September.
5 – Rafael Leao (AC Milan)
Leao’s potential signing could be a game-changer for Arsenal. His impressive speed, skillful dribbling, and keen eye for goal have been crucial for AC Milan. By bringing in Leao and potentially shifting Gabriel Martinelli to a more central role, Arsenal could significantly enhance their attacking flexibility and threat. He is 25 and would cost a hefty fee, with AC Milan likely to point to his £150million release clause if a club comes in. Considering this price and his fall off in terms of goals recently, Arsenal may be hesitant to make such a move.
In conclusion, Arsenal’s pursuit of a top-tier centre forward is crucial for their ambitions. Each of these five players offers qualities that could revitalise Arsenal’s attack but all come at a cost. The key challenge for the Arsenal management will be to identify which of these talents best aligns with the team’s style and strategy, ensuring the club returns to its glory days without making an expensive mistake.
With the right signing, Arsenal could very well find the ‘killer’ striker they’ve been missing, someone who can convert chances into goals and make the difference in the tightly contested games.