Arsenal’s attacking options have been dealt a major setback following Kai Havertz’s hamstring injury sustained during the team’s mid-season training camp in Dubai.
Reports suggest the German international, who has been deployed as a forward this season, could be ruled out for the remainder of the campaign.
This presents a significant problem for Mikel Arteta, who is already dealing with injuries to key attackers such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus.
With the Premier League title race intensifying, Arsenal may need to seek reinforcements to maintain their competitiveness.
Havertz’s injury could not have come at a worse time. As the Gunners battle for the top spot, squad depth is crucial, especially in the attacking department.
Initially, Arsenal planned to rely on their existing players, but given the uncertainty surrounding Havertz’s recovery, they may now be forced to explore alternative solutions.
With the January transfer window closed, their only option for an immediate signing is the free-agent market.
While signing an out-of-contract player mid-season carries risks—such as fitness and form concerns—Arsenal might have no choice but to take that gamble.
Four Free Agents Arsenal Could Consider
With limited options available, Arsenal could turn to experienced free agents to provide short-term cover in attack.
Here are four possible candidates:
1. Diego Costa – The Experienced Veteran
At 36, Diego Costa is far from the prolific striker he once was, but his experience and physicality could offer Arsenal an alternative option in the final months of the season.
The former Chelsea and Atlético Madrid forward last played for Gremio in Brazil, where injuries limited his impact, but he still contributed eight goals and five assists.
Costa’s familiarity with the Premier League is a major advantage, as he understands the intensity and demands of English football.
While he may not be a long-term solution, his aggressive playing style, hold-up ability, and leadership could prove valuable in crucial fixtures.
2. Wissam Ben Yedder – The Clinical Striker
Another interesting option is Wissam Ben Yedder, 34, who left AS Monaco in the summer and has been without a club since.
Despite his off-field legal troubles—including a suspended two-year prison sentence for sexual assault, which he is currently appealing—his ability in front of goal is unquestionable.
Ben Yedder netted 20 goals in 34 appearances for Monaco last season, proving he still possesses a sharp instinct for scoring.
His versatility as both a central striker and a second forward could provide Arteta with more tactical flexibility.
However, reports suggest he is in talks with Venezia FC in Serie A, which may complicate any potential move to Arsenal.
3. Gerard Deulofeu – The Creative Forward
A more unconventional choice would be Gerard Deulofeu, who has been a free agent since parting ways with Udinese in January.
However, his injury history raises concerns, as he has not played a competitive match since January 2023.
Despite this, Deulofeu remains a technically gifted attacker known for his dribbling skills and creativity.
If Arsenal are looking for a player who can provide a different attacking dimension rather than a traditional striker, he could be a wildcard option.
However, his lack of match fitness is a serious drawback, and he has previously stated that he intends to return to football in 2025, making an immediate move unlikely.
4. Maxi Gómez – The Physical Target Man
At 28, Maxi Gómez is the youngest of the available options and arguably the most viable for both short-term and long-term needs.
The Uruguayan striker has been without a club since leaving Trabzonspor in the summer, though his recent loan spell at Cádiz was disappointing, as he failed to register a goal or assist.
Despite his recent struggles, Gómez has a respectable record, scoring 89 goals in 304 career appearances.
Known for his strength, aerial ability, and hold-up play, he could fit into Arsenal’s system as a traditional No. 9.
If he can regain his confidence and sharpness, he could be the most practical choice for Arteta’s squad.
Should Arsenal Take the Risk?
Bringing in a free agent at this stage of the season is far from ideal, but Arsenal’s injury crisis might leave them with no alternative.
With 22 out of 25 available squad slots filled, they do have room to register a new player if needed.
Arteta will need to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of signing a free agent.
While none of these players guarantee immediate impact, Arsenal’s title ambitions may force them to act.
Fitness, match readiness, and adaptability to the team’s system are all factors to consider before making a decision.
An alternative solution could be promoting a young player from within the squad.
Ethan Nwaneri has been gaining experience with the first team, and Arsenal have a history of trusting their academy talents.
However, relying on a teenager in a high-pressure title race carries significant risks.
Financial Considerations
One advantage of signing a free agent is that no transfer fee would be required. However, wages and signing bonuses could still present challenges.
Experienced players like Costa or Ben Yedder may demand significant salaries despite being out of contract, and Arsenal must ensure that any short-term move does not interfere with their long-term financial planning.
What’s Next for Arsenal?
With the title race heating up, Arsenal must act swiftly if they decide to bring in a replacement for Havertz.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether they can rely on their existing squad or if reinforcements are necessary.
Arteta has repeatedly emphasized the importance of squad depth, and with matches coming thick and fast, Arsenal cannot afford to be short of attacking options.
If they hope to compete with Liverpool and Manchester City, they must ensure they have the firepower needed to sustain their title challenge.
Ultimately, Arsenal must decide whether any of these free agents can genuinely contribute to their campaign.
If they believe a short-term signing could provide the necessary boost, a deal could be imminent.
Otherwise, they may have to hope for quick recoveries from their injured stars and trust in their current squad to see them through this crucial period.
