Arsenal Solves One Transfer Problem While Stepping Up Search for a Striker

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Ethan Nwaneri has risen to the challenge in Bukayo Saka’s absence.

Arsenal has managed to address one of their pressing concerns as their search for a new winger can now be postponed until the summer. This development comes after 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri demonstrated his capabilities on Wednesday night, proving himself as a viable option on the right flank in Bukayo Saka’s absence. Saka is not expected to return until March due to a hamstring tear suffered last month, and manager Mikel Arteta has been experimenting with various solutions.

While Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling have all been given opportunities to impress, it is Nwaneri who has truly seized the moment. The 17-year-old was handed his first start in the Champions League on Wednesday and marked the occasion by scoring the decisive goal against Girona, securing Arsenal’s place in the last 16.

gettyimages 2196634297 612x612 1 — GIRONA, SPAIN – JANUARY 29: Ethan Nwaneri (R) of Arsenal FC celebrates after scoring a the team’s second goal with teammates during the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD8 match between Girona FC and Arsenal FC at Estadio de Montilivi on January 29, 2025, in Girona, Spain. (Photo By Dennis Agyeman/Europa Press via Getty Images)

Nwaneri’s goal was a moment of brilliance. After picking up the ball on the right side of the penalty area, he deftly weaved his way across the box before curling a shot into the bottom corner. This goal was Nwaneri’s sixth of the season and his second this month since being moved to the right wing.

Despite this progress, Arsenal is not complacent. With the January transfer window still open, the club is intensifying its search for another striker to further strengthen the squad. Arsenal has been linked with several high-profile targets, including Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa and Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich.

Mikel Arteta is particularly keen to add more firepower to his team, especially following the season-ending injury to Gabriel Jesus. The club has already made an initial bid for Watkins, which was rejected, and they are now preparing to come back with an improved offer.

In addition to Watkins, Arsenal is also considering a move for Tel, who has struggled to find game time at Bayern Munich. The young French forward is viewed as a promising talent who could make an immediate impact at the Emirates.

With the transfer window deadline drawing near, Arsenal supporters will be closely monitoring the team’s ability to close these deals and strengthen their squad for the rest of the season.