Ian Wright claims primary striker ‘wasn’t even an option’ for Arsenal’s recruitment in January

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Ian Wright revealed that he was pleased with Arsenal’s attempt to sign Ollie Watkins during the winter transfer window, while speculating that Alexander Isak was not an option.

Arsenal legend Ian Wright recently expressed his satisfaction with the club’s efforts to sign Ollie Watkins during the January transfer window. Wright, a former Gunners striker, shared his thoughts on the club’s transfer strategy, particularly in light of the injury to Gabriel Jesus and the subsequent reliance on Kai Havertz in the false No.9 role.

Watkins emerged as Arsenal’s primary target as the transfer window drew to a close. The club reportedly made a bid of around £60 million for the England forward, but Aston Villa rejected the offer, determined to keep their star striker. Wright praised Arsenal’s attempt to bolster their attack, stating, “I was quite pleased, however it came about, that they tried for someone like Ollie Watkins. You have to at least try.”

However, Wright also speculated that Alexander Isak was never truly an option for Arsenal. Despite persistent rumors linking Isak to the club, Wright claimed that the Newcastle striker “wasn’t even an option” and that the club deemed such a signing too risky. He emphasized the difficulty of acquiring top-tier strikers in January, noting that “Isak went for £63 million, he’s the only one in recent times that I’m looking at as a striker who has probably doubled his money.”

Wright’s comments highlight the challenges Arsenal faced in the transfer market and the club’s cautious approach to spending. While fans may have been disappointed by the lack of signings, Wright believes that the club’s efforts to secure Watkins were commendable, even if they ultimately fell short.

Wright’s observations give Arsenal a useful viewpoint on the club’s transfer strategy and the intricacies of the market as they navigate the rest of the season. Whether or not Arsenal will revisit their pursuit of Watkins or other targets in the summer remains to be seen, but Wright’s approval of their January efforts is a positive sign for the club’s future ambitions.