Arsenal shifts focus to Serie A striker as £100m targets ruled out

Arsenal seem to have abandoned plans to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting, instead turning their focus to Mateo Retegui, a player PSG also seem to be vying for.

Arsenal’s strategic moves to bolster their squad are making headlines as the January transfer window draws near. The clubs focused on strengthening their attacking line in order to improve their chances of winning the Premier League. However, recent developments have seen Arsenal shift their attention to Serie A striker Mateo Retegui, following complications in securing their initial £100m targets.

Arsenal’s interest in Swedish striker Alexander Isak and Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres has been well-documented. Isak’s recent performances, including a hat-trick for Newcastle, have caught the eye of top clubs, with Barcelona reportedly making him their prime target for the summer. Meanwhile, Gyokeres, who has netted an impressive 27 goals in 26 appearances for Sporting Lisbon, is speculated to prefer a reunion with Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.

In light of these challenges, Arsenal’s scouting efforts have led them to Mateo Retegui, the 25-year-old Italian striker currently playing for Atalanta. Retegui, who has roots in the academies of Argentine giants River Plate and Boca Juniors, has shown remarkable potential. Reports from respected Italian outlet CalcioMercato confirm Arsenal’s scouts were present at Atalanta’s 6-1 Champions League victory over Young Boys, where Retegui scored twice. His tally for the season stands impressive with 14 goals across all competitions, leading the Serie A scoring charts.

Should Arsenal secure Retegui, it could be a strategic masterstroke. The 25-year-old has demonstrated his scoring prowess in one of Europe’s top leagues and his adaptability across various playing styles—traits that could complement Arsenal’s dynamic attacking force, which includes the likes of Kai Havertz and a resurgent Gabriel Jesus. For Arsenal fans, the prospect of Retegui joining the squad brings a mix of excitement and skepticism. Transitioning from Serie A to the Premier League has historically been challenging for many players, and Retegui’s injury history, notably his current thigh issue, warrants caution.