Why hasn't Arsenal found a suitable striker yet?

In this season's transfer market, Arsenal has yet to find a suitable striker, a problem not unique to them but shared by nearly all top European clubs. Even a potential move of a star like Mbappe to Real Madrid wouldn’t fully address the issue, as he isn’t a traditional No. 9, as seen in his performances at the Euros. Thus, Arsenal's search for a central striker remains unresolved.

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Arsenal urgently needs an immediate impact striker who can step in and support their title ambitions. However, there are few options that meet this requirement. Young prospects like Evan Ferguson, though promising, may not be ready to shoulder the responsibility of a title challenge. Other top forwards, such as Kane and Haaland, are either uninterested in a move or prohibitively expensive. Moreover, several rumored targets like Vlahović, Gyökeres, and Šeško, while talented, do not fully match Arsenal’s needs.

Mikel Arteta’s tactical system requires a deep-lying forward with the ability to hold up play and distribute the ball, characteristics similar to those of Havertz. While Havertz may not be the perfect striker, his importance to the team is evident in his passing success rate. In contrast, some of the available forwards may have superior finishing skills but lack the passing and tactical fit necessary for Arsenal.

Specifically, Osimhen's inconsistent form raises questions about the value of a high-cost transfer. Vlahović, once rumored to be Arsenal-bound, chose Juventus instead. Gyökeres struggled in the English leagues, and Ivan Toney, with his suspension and age, may not be the best fit. As for Šeško, although he has potential, his performance at Leipzig has been underwhelming, and his passing ability is lacking.

Given the challenges of securing a top striker, Arsenal shifted their focus to reinforcing the midfield and defense this summer. This reflects the scarcity of elite strikers on the market. For now, Arsenal may have to remain patient and continue their search for an ideal candidate who fits their tactical needs.

Arsenal had an early interest in Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig (Image: Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images)