Arsenal’s recent FA Cup exit, which ended in a penalty shootout defeat to 10-man Manchester United, highlighted a significant weakness in their squad — the lack of a world-class centre-forward. Despite being second in the Premier League and joint third in terms of goals scored, the Gunners have struggled in front of goal in recent matches. Arsenal need a striker 2025 to strengthen their attack and provide the clinical finishing required to win titles.
In this article, we will explore the current situation at Arsenal and why Arsenal need a striker 2025 to ensure they remain competitive. We will also examine potential forward targets the Gunners could sign in the upcoming transfer window.
Arsenal Need a Striker 2025: A Growing Concern
As the 2024-2025 season progresses, Arsenal have shown signs of offensive fragility. The Gunners have managed to score 39 goals in 20 Premier League games, which places them in the top ranks for attacking prowess. However, their finishing leaves much to be desired. Arsenal are only sixth in terms of big chance conversion and eighth since December 1st. To make matters worse, Arsenal are the only team in the top six of the Premier League without a player in double figures for goals.
Kai Havertz, who has been playing in a centre-forward role despite not being a natural number nine, is currently Arsenal’s top scorer in the league with just seven goals. This lack of a consistent goal-scorer has become an increasing issue for Mikel Arteta’s side. Their recent games against Newcastle in the League Cup and Manchester United have exposed these shortcomings further.
In the League Cup semi-final, Arsenal had 23 shots but only managed three on target. Similarly, in the game against Manchester United, they had seven shots on target from 26 attempts, with their only goal coming from a deflected shot by defender Gabriel. In addition, Arsenal suffered an injury to another attacking player, with Gabriel Jesus, who had been deployed centrally, stretchered off during the first half.
Former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott commented on the situation, emphasizing that “Arsenal need a striker at this time because it would have been a completely different story.” He continued, “Arsenal have gone from being a free-flowing forward line, exciting the crowd, to going a bit stale at Emirates Stadium.”
This lack of a clinical finisher is putting a significant strain on their overall performance, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that Arsenal need a striker 2025 to fix this problem.
The Impact of Missing a Centre-Forward
Arsenal’s struggles in attack have led to suggestions from pundits and former players alike that signing a proven number nine is essential. Alan Shearer, the Premier League’s all-time top scorer, pointed out that if Arsenal fail to invest in a centre-forward, they could miss out on silverware this season. “I felt that’s what they needed, and I think that would possibly cost them the league not investing in that position,” said Shearer.
Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards echoed this sentiment, stating, “The difference between Arsenal winning the league or winning these ties is just a centre-forward.” Richards also acknowledged the difficulty of signing a quality number nine, given the scarcity of world-class forwards available on the market.
Despite this, Arsenal need a striker 2025 to enhance their attack. This missing piece of the puzzle could be what ultimately propels them to challenge for the Premier League title and other major honors. But who could they sign?
Nine Potential Centre-Forwards Arsenal Could Target in 2025
There are several candidates who could fill the role of a clinical striker at Arsenal. Here are nine options that could make a significant impact:
1. Jonathan David (Lille)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 28
- Goals: 17
- Assists: 5
- Minutes per goal: 133.2
Jonathan David has been in excellent form for Lille this season, and he is currently the joint-top scorer in France’s Ligue 1. The 24-year-old Canadian international has also impressed in the Champions League, scoring four goals. With his contract expiring in the summer, David could be an affordable option for Arsenal. His potential availability makes him an attractive target.
2. Liam Delap (Ipswich Town)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 20
- Goals: 8
- Assists: 2
- Minutes per goal: 183.4
Liam Delap has been impressing at Ipswich Town after his move from Manchester City. The 21-year-old English striker has scored eight goals in 20 appearances this season and is seen as a promising talent. Gary Lineker has praised his potential, and Arsenal could opt for Delap as a young, up-and-coming striker for the future.
3. Jhon Duran (Aston Villa)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 26
- Goals: 12
- Assists: 0
- Minutes per goal: 81.3
Jhon Duran, at just 21, has made a significant impact for Aston Villa this season, often coming off the bench to score important goals. His ability to make an immediate impact has seen him become a reliable option for Villa. Although he recently signed a long-term deal, Arsenal could test Villa’s resolve with a large bid.
4. Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting)
2024-2025 Stats (League Only):
- Appearances: 17
- Goals: 21
- Assists: 2
- Minutes per goal: 72.1
Viktor Gyokeres has been sensational for Sporting Lisbon, having scored 21 goals in 17 league appearances. The Swedish striker is a target for several top clubs, including Manchester United. However, Arsenal could make a move for him, especially if his release clause of 100 million euros is met.
5. Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 22
- Goals: 15
- Assists: 4
- Minutes per goal: 117.5
Alexander Isak is one of Europe’s most in-form strikers, and Arsenal witnessed firsthand his ability when he scored against them in the Carabao Cup. The Swedish international has 15 goals this season and is a key player for Newcastle. However, Arsenal would face stiff competition to sign him, as Newcastle are reluctant to sell.
6. Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 25
- Goals: 19
- Assists: 11
- Minutes per goal: 104.2
Omar Marmoush has been a standout performer for Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring 19 goals and providing 11 assists. The Egyptian forward has been linked with a move to Manchester City, but Arsenal could enter the race to secure his signature. His all-round contribution could be a great fit for Arsenal’s attack.
7. Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, on loan from Napoli)
2024-2025 Stats (League Only):
- Appearances: 13
- Goals: 10
- Assists: 4
- Minutes per goal: 93.2
Victor Osimhen is a proven goal-scorer, having helped Napoli win the Serie A title in 2022-23. Now on loan at Galatasaray, Osimhen has continued his strong form, scoring 10 goals in 13 league appearances. Arsenal may see him as a short-term solution, and his clinical finishing could be a valuable asset for their attacking line.
8. Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 24
- Goals: 12
- Assists: 3
- Minutes per goal: 140.3
Benjamin Sesko, a towering 6ft 5in forward, is another potential target for Arsenal. The Slovenian international has been linked with a move to several top clubs, including Arsenal. However, with RB Leipzig handing him a new long-term contract, the Gunners would face competition to secure his services.
9. Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus)
2024-2025 Stats:
- Appearances: 23
- Goals: 12
- Assists: 2
- Minutes per goal: 156.0
Dusan Vlahovic is a long-time target for Arsenal, and the 24-year-old Serbian striker continues to perform well for Juventus. His physicality and finishing ability make him a strong option for Arsenal, and he could provide the firepower the team desperately needs.
Conclusion: Arsenal Need a Striker 2025
As Arsenal continue to compete for major honors in 2025, it is clear that they need to bolster their attack with a world-class centre-forward. Whether it’s Jonathan David, Liam Delap, or Victor Osimhen, Arsenal have several options to choose from in the transfer market. Arsenal need a striker 2025 to address their goal-scoring problems, and securing the right player could be the key to their success this season.
Arsenal’s pursuit of a clinical finisher will be crucial in their bid to win silverware and mount a serious challenge for the Premier League title.