Arsenal are targeting ‘superstar’ wingers to challenge Gabriel Martinelli in January
Arsenal have identified two superstar wingers as transfer targets in January to compete for left-back Gabriel Martinelli.
The gunners are planning to make some extremely high-profile signings in the January transfer window as they look to boost their title ambitions.
Former chief scout Mick Brown, who has worked for Manchester United, Tottenham and West Ham, has told Football Insider that Mikel Arteta is unhappy with the options currently available to him and is looking to add to the squad.
Arsenal brought in Raheem Sterling in the summer to expand their rotation options, while Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli have also contributed in wide roles, but there are growing concerns about depth and stability in the position.
Despite Martinelli’s goal in Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, there are doubts over his ability to consistently perform at the level required to win the title. The Emirates recruitment team is looking for players who can add a new dimension to the attack.
Arsenal have begun their search for potential targets with both West Ham’s Mohamed Kudus and Brentford’s Brian Mbeumo in mind. Kudus’ potential move could be delayed until the summer, but Mbeumo, who has made an impressive start to the season, is likely to be a candidate for a winter signing.
Brown, who was part of Manchester United’s golden era, stressed the importance of recruiting transformative players.
“Arteta isn’t happy with the makeup of the team in that position. There have been question marks about Sterling, Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus.
“Over time, Martinelli has struggled to establish himself consistently, and it’s uncertain if he can meet the demands of a title-challenging team week in, week out.”
Brown explained how strategic signings can change the direction of a team, using an analogy with Manchester City’s signings of Jack Grealish and Jeremy Doku.
“Man City identified players they believed would make a significant impact, and they went and got them. Arsenal need a superstar of that calibre—someone who can drive their attack and truly make a difference.”
