Arsenal is preparing to bolster its attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window by securing the services of a €70 million striker for the Emirates Stadium.
The decision follows a disappointing performance against Aston Villa, during which manager Mikel Arteta experimented with Kai Havertz in midfield and Gabriel Jesus up front, resulting in a 2-0 defeat and highlighting a significant gap in squad depth.
Gabriel Jesus has faced injury issues in his second season at the club, while Eddie Nketiah has had limited opportunities to make an impact.
Despite Havertz being the preferred choice, Arsenal lacks a dependable backup plan.
Recent reports from Gazzetta dello Sport indicate that Arsenal is actively pursuing Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna as an alternative solution.
Zirkzee, along with Ivan Toney and Victor Osimhen, is among the potential targets to address Arsenal’s striker position.
Earlier reports from Gianluca Di Marzio suggest that Arsenal is willing to offer Zirkzee a weekly wage of £115,000 to tempt him into a move to the Premier League.
If the deal materializes, Zirkzee is expected to serve as a rotational player alongside Havertz, Jesus, and wingers Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.
There is growing anticipation surrounding Zirkzee’s potential transfer, with FourFourTwo even predicting Arsenal’s interest earlier this month.
However, the success of the transfer could hinge on the negotiated price. Zirkzee has attracted attention from various clubs due to Bologna’s impressive season under Thiago Motta.
To secure the 22-year-old’s services, Arsenal may need to meet Bologna’s valuation of €70 million.