Arsenal have reportedly expressed interest in signing Liverpool forward Diogo Jota as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window.
The 28-year-old Portuguese international, who joined Liverpool from Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2020 for a fee of £45 million, could be on the move, with his future at Anfield uncertain.
According to reports, Liverpool’s incoming manager, Arne Slot, is concerned about Jota’s persistent injury issues, which have significantly hampered his availability over the past four and a half years.
The forward has missed an astonishing 95 matches due to injuries since his arrival at the club, including 16 games this season alone.
These frequent setbacks have prevented him from maintaining a consistent run in the starting lineup.
Despite Liverpool’s reluctance to sell to a Premier League rival, the club is reportedly open to letting Jota leave for the right price.
Alongside Arsenal, several clubs from abroad are believed to be monitoring his situation closely.
The Gunners had previously shown interest in signing Jota last summer and could reignite their pursuit as manager Mikel Arteta aims to reinforce his squad with additional attacking firepower.
Jota has been relatively productive in front of goal when fit, registering eight goals and two assists in 20 appearances across all competitions this season.
Notably, three of his goals have come from the bench, with his last strike recorded in a match against Nottingham Forest in January.
After recovering from his most recent injury, the forward is now back in contention and could feature in Liverpool’s FA Cup clash against Plymouth this Sunday.
The former Porto and Atletico Madrid attacker made his return to action during Liverpool’s dominant 4-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Friday.
He was introduced as a substitute in the 72nd minute, replacing Darwin Núñez, and played a part in securing the team’s spot in the Carabao Cup final.
Over the course of his Liverpool career, Jota has made 165 appearances, scoring 64 goals and providing crucial contributions in several important matches.
Arsenal’s interest in Jota aligns with their need for attacking reinforcements.
Despite their strong performances this season, Arteta’s side has lacked depth in forward positions, with Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah struggling for consistency.
Bringing in a versatile attacker like Jota, who can play across the front line, could provide the Gunners with additional options as they push for major honors next season.
While Arsenal remain keen, negotiations would depend on Liverpool’s willingness to part ways with the Portuguese forward and whether they would demand a hefty fee to sell him to a direct competitor.
With foreign clubs also interested, it remains to be seen whether the Gunners will be able to secure a deal for Jota in the upcoming transfer window.
