Reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano has shared his verdict on the quest for additional attacking signings at Arsenal this summer, suggesting we could see a surprise signing in north London.
The lowdown: All change in N7
It's been a busy window so far for technical director Edu as the Brazilian attempts to suitably reinforce Mikel Arteta's squad ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, having missed out on qualification for the UEFA Champions League last term.
The Gunners have bolstered the ranks with the additions of Gabriel Jesus, Fabio Vieira, Marquinhos and Matt Turner, whilst Matteo Guendouzi, Alexandre Lacazette, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Auston Trusty have all left the Emirates Stadium in some capacity.
After the north Londoners missed out on Raphinha to Barcelona, Manchester City defender Oleksandr Zinchenko is expected to be the next through the door and links to the likes of Lucas Paqueta remain ongoing, leading to the belief another attacking option could yet be forthcoming...
The latest: 'Happy to jump'
Speaking to Give Me Sport, renowned transfer guru Romano suggested that Arsenal could yet strike for a new target we don't even know about yet if a perfect opportunity arises.
He said: “I think it’s a possibility but Arsenal will go with their strategy as always. As they did in January when they wanted Dusan Vlahovic and were not able to sign him, they decided to wait and sign a player like Gabriel Jesus.
“I think it will be the same. If they can find an opportunity for a player who could be Arsenal, the right player for Mikel Arteta and Edu, they will be happy to jump into it.”
The verdict: Fingers crossed
Albeit the business so far should be commended, the quick-fire double departure of previously talismanic duo Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Lacazette puts huge pressure on Jesus to hit the ground running.
Whilst wide options such as Gabriel Martinelli, Bukayo Saka and young centre-forward Eddie Nketiah have all proven to be capable of finding the net in the Premier League, ultimately the Gunners missed out on a top four finish with eight fewer goals scored than north London rivals Tottenham - a key reason behind the fifth place finish.
Plus, with UEFA Europa League football back on the table and big money flop Nicolas Pepe reportedly courted by Leicester City, adding sufficient depth in the attacking department will be imperative and as such, Edu must remain attentive to all potential opportunities.