Arsenal’s Injury Crisis Worsens After Kai Havertz’s Hamstring Tear
Arsenal’s ongoing injury problems have reached a critical point following Kai Havertz’s recent hamstring tear. The German international sustained the injury during the Gunners’ warm-weather training camp in Dubai, ruling him out for the remainder of the 2024/25 season. This setback adds to Mikel Arteta’s already extensive list of unavailable players, with fellow forwards Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka also sidelined.
With Havertz and Jesus set to miss the rest of the season, Arsenal finds itself in an emergency situation. The North London club now lacks an orthodox striker, with only Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling, and youngster Ethan Nwaneri available in attacking positions.
Having opted against reinforcing their squad in the January transfer window, the Gunners must now explore alternative solutions. Promoting youth players is one possibility, but turning to the free agent market appears to be the most realistic short-term fix. While the options may be limited, Arsenal cannot afford to be selective given their predicament.
Here are six free agent strikers who could help ease Arsenal’s attacking woes.
Wissam Ben Yedder
Wissam Ben Yedder built a reputation as one of Ligue 1’s most consistent goal scorers during his time at AS Monaco. The French forward netted 118 goals in 201 appearances before his contract expired last summer. His technical ability, finishing prowess, and experience in top European competitions make him an intriguing option.
However, Ben Yedder’s off-field issues present a significant hurdle. In November 2024, he was handed a two-year suspended prison sentence after being found guilty of sexual assault. Signing him would be an extremely controversial move, bringing unwanted scrutiny to the club. While his footballing ability is unquestionable, the ethical and reputational risks associated with his potential arrival may outweigh the benefits.
Maxi Gomez
Maxi Gomez is a surprising name on the free agent list, given that he is just 28 years old. The powerful Uruguayan striker was once considered a rising star following his impressive performances for Celta Vigo, where he scored 30 goals in two seasons.
After moving to Valencia, his output declined significantly, managing only 23 goals in three full campaigns. His most recent stint in Turkey with Trabzonspor and a loan spell at Cadiz proved disastrous he failed to score in 33 league appearances last season.
While his recent form is concerning, Gomez’s physicality and experience could provide Arsenal’s with a much-needed focal point in attack. If Arteta can revive his confidence, he could be a valuable stopgap solution.
Mariano Diaz
Once tipped for greatness, Mariano Diaz emerged as a prolific goal scorer for Real Madrid Castilla, netting 32 goals in 44 games. After a solid loan spell at Lyon, where he scored 21 times in a single season, Real Madrid brought him back with high expectations. However, he struggled for consistent minutes and failed to establish himself as a key player.
His brief stint at Sevilla in 2023/24 did little to restore his reputation, as he failed to score in 13 appearances before being released. Now 31, Diaz remains without a club. While his track record in La Liga raises doubts, his experience at an elite club could make him a competent backup option for Arsenal’s attack.
Diego Costa
Diego Costa’s name will certainly stir excitement among Premier League fans. The former Chelsea star has been a free agent since leaving Brazilian side Botafogo at the end of 2024.
Costa is known for his aggressive playing style, strength, and ability to trouble defenders. However, at 36, he is far removed from his prime. His underwhelming spell with Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2022/23 where he managed just one goal in 25 appearances—suggests that his best days are long behind him.
Nevertheless, his leadership qualities and experience could provide Arsenal with some short-term benefits. If Arteta needs a physical presence who can hold up play and add experience to the squad, Costa might be worth considering.
Lucas Perez
A familiar face to Arsenal supporters, Lucas Perez had a brief but decent spell at the club, scoring seven goals in 21 appearances during the 2016/17 season. After leaving Arsenal, he had a short stint with West Ham before returning to Spain, where he played for Deportivo La Coruna.
Perez, now 36, was actively playing in the Spanish second division as recently as January 2025, scoring four goals and providing as many assists. However, he left Deportivo earlier this year due to personal reasons, making his availability uncertain.
While he is past his peak, Perez’s previous experience at Arsenal and his ability to operate in multiple attacking roles could make him a viable emergency option.
Carlos Vela
Another former Arsenal player, Carlos Vela, has enjoyed a long and productive career. After struggling to make an impact in North London, he flourished at Real Sociedad before moving to Major League Soccer with LAFC.
Vela thrived in MLS, scoring 93 goals in 188 appearances, playing both as a winger and a striker. Now 35, he is without a club following his departure from LAFC. While his technical ability remains intact, the intensity of Premier League football might be too much for him at this stage of his career.
A return to Arsenal seems unlikely, but if the Gunners need a creative attacker with an eye for goal, Vela could be an intriguing short-term fix.
Conclusion: Who Should Arsenal Sign?
With no natural striker available, Arsenal must act fast to address their attacking crisis. Each of the free agents listed comes with pros and cons:
- Wissam Ben Yedder: Proven goal scorer but a highly controversial option due to legal issues.
- Maxi Gomez: A physical presence but struggling for form.
- Mariano Diaz: Experienced but inconsistent.
- Diego Costa: Once a Premier League menace, but now far from his best.
- Lucas Perez: Familiar with the club but past his prime.
- Carlos Vela: Technically gifted but untested at this level in years.
Arsenal must weigh their options carefully. Whether Arteta opts for a proven but controversial name like Ben Yedder, a physical striker like Gomez, or a veteran presence like Costa, time is running out. The decision could have a huge impact on the remainder of their 2024/25 campaign.
