Arsenal to 'sign killer striker after what Ian Wright told me'
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Gabriel Jesus’ squandered chances against Monaco show Arsenal have to sign a “killer” in front of goal next, according to Don Hutchison.
The Gunners created several opportunities during the first half of their 3-0 win over Monaco on 11 December but failed to capitalise until late on. Jesus, who missed two clear chances, faced criticism from fans, with some labelling him "finished" after a similarly frustrating display against Fulham.
Despite an excellent assist for Bukayo Saka the Brazilian’s poor finishing has put either Alexander Isak or Benjamin Sesko on the agenda at the Emirates in Hutchison’s view.
TNT Sports pundits weighed in during the TNT Sports Goals Show Xtra on 11 December. Hutchison, a former Liverpool and West Ham midfielder, emphasised the importance of a reliable number nine after Jesus was kept out when one-on-one with the keeper: "That has to be the next position, a recognised number nine."
He added, "I speak to Ian Wright a lot, and Wrighty talks about being a killer in front of goal. They've got good players, but if you're aspiring to win Champions Leagues or the Premier League, you need a guy who's going to score close to 25 goals a season."
Joe Cole questioned why Galatasaray loanee Victor Osimhen wasn’t a target in the summer, but Hutchison instead expects moves towards Isak, noting, "he seems like an Arsenal number nine."
However, after Julien Laurens suggested Benjamin Šeško the pundit agreed he was a “more likely” option than the likes of Dusan Vlahovic or Viktor Gyokeres, highlighting the young striker's potential: "He's got plenty of room to grow."
Mikel Arteta needs new Arsenal goalscorer
Football Insider opinion
Before tonight, the North London side had begun relying heavily on set-piece goals, scoring three in a row against Manchester United and Fulham.
However, frustration boiled over during their 8 December clash with Fulham, where Marco Silva's tactical setup outmanoeuvred Mikel Arteta. The Cottagers boss’ approach was described as "excellent but a little bit disrespectful."
The Gunners' interest in a striker has persisted since the summer, with sources telling Football Insider that Arsenal are keeping tabs on Vlahovic at Juventus.
The Serbian striker, whose contract runs until 2026, remains a strong target following their pursuit of him in 2022. That interest could resurface in January.
Despite tonight's goal, Kai Havertz has struggled recently, contributing just one goal or assist in his last eight games.
However, Arsenal initially signed Havertz as a midfielder, not with plans for him to play as a striker.
Vlahovic's prolific record of 51 goals in 119 appearances, including one tonight against Manchester City, makes him a strong candidate.
Jesus's lack of goals may prompt the club to make changes, but Arteta has dismissed rumours of the Brazilian leaving.
Responding to reports in Brazil that suggested a potential mid-season exit, Arteta bluntly stated: "No, nonsense."
In other news, Arsenal are plotting a spending spree in January.
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The post Arsenal to 'sign killer striker after what Ian Wright told me' appeared first on Football Insider.
