Arsenal draw up three-man shortlist ahead of January transfer window

Arsenal draw up three-man shortlist ahead of January transfer window Arsenal transfer latest as Mikel Arteta weighs winger targets for January Arsenal are assessing four attacking options as Mikel Arteta looks to add more speed and incision to his forward line, according to Independent . The names under consideration are Alex Baena, Endrick, Antonio Nusa and Junior Kroupi, with the club focused on finding the right profile rather than forcing an immediate deal. The key driver is clear. Arteta “wants to bolster his attack with pace” after a summer that “left his forward line thin”. Arsenal’s priority is described as a player capable of changing the rhythm of games quickly, with the report stating that Arteta wants “a transition player who can carry the ball up the pitch at pace and also be effective in tight spaces”. Photo: IMAGO Junior Kroupi emerges as leading Arsenal target Of the options mentioned, Junior Kroupi appears to be the standout fit. The report says “Kroupi is the ideal candidate”, which gives a strong indication of the type Arsenal want to bring in. There is, however, an important caveat. It is “seen as unlikely that Bournemouth do a deal until the summer”, which may push Arsenal towards a more opportunistic move in January. That has led to wider checks across the market, with “Atletico’s Baena, Real Madrid’s Endrick and Leipzig’s Nusa seen as potentials”. All three offer different qualities, but each broadly fits the search for more pace, ball carrying and one v one threat in wide areas. Martin Zubimendi situation could shape Arsenal plans Any incoming may depend on exits. The report notes that “any deal is likely dependent on an outgoing”, with Martin Zubimendi the most notable name in that conversation. Arsenal’s midfield depth has created interest elsewhere, and “a number of clubs, including Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Chelsea, feel a deal for Martin Zubimendi may be possible”. If that develops, Arsenal could reinvest. The piece adds that “Arsenal would be expected to use the money to buy a wide player”, while the interest from Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid could create useful leverage in negotiations. In that context, “a swap isn’t considered impossible”, and Arsenal may still retain the flexibility to revisit Kroupi later. Our View This feels like a smart recognition of what the squad needs most. The lack of pace and direct running has been obvious at times, particularly when matches become slow and condensed. A winger who can receive, drive and commit defenders would give Arsenal a different attacking gear, and that matters over a long season when marginal gains decide titles and top level knockout ties. Kroupi being described as “the ideal candidate” is the most interesting part of the report. If that is the internal view, patience may be required, and there is no problem with that if the club truly believe he is the right fit. What cannot happen is drifting through another window without adding a genuine one v one threat. The current options have quality, but the attack needs variety and more unpredictability. The Zubimendi angle is intriguing too. Midfield depth is a strength, and if a departure unlocks the right wide forward, there is a logic to it. Arsenal need better balance across the squad, not just more bodies in one department. Baena, Endrick and Nusa all sound like credible alternatives, but the bigger point is encouraging. There is a clear profile being targeted, and it is the right one. If the club move decisively, this could be the type of addition that lifts the entire front line.