Should Arsenal Make Any Deadline Day Deals?

The transfer window is nearing its dramatic conclusion, and for Arsenal, the question on every fan’s mind is: Should Arsenal make any deadline day deals?

With a promising start to the season and ambitions to challenge on multiple fronts, Arsenal’s current squad depth and quality will be put to the test. While the Gunners have not made any moves earlier in the window, deadline day always presents opportunities to strengthen key areas or address unexpected challenges. From filling potential gaps due to injuries to seizing last-minute bargains, the final hours of the window are often a mix of calculated risks and high rewards.

But is it worth diving into the frenzy, or should Arsenal stick with the squad they’ve carefully built under the guidance of Mikel Arteta and the club’s recruitment team? Let’s explore whether the Gunners should make a late splash in the market.

Arsenal’s Current Squad Analysis

Key Strengths

1. Defence
   Arsenal’s defense has been a reliable foundation this season. William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhães remain stalwarts at the heart of the backline, providing consistency and composure. Jurrien Timber has become indispensable since returning from injury, featuring regularly and excelling in multiple positions. Myles Lewis-Skelly has impressed with his maturity and versatility, stepping up as a left-back option in several matches. Meanwhile, new signing Riccardo Calafiori has added depth and balance, ensuring Arsenal have quality options across the defensive line. This cohesive unit has been key to Arsenal’s strong performances across competitions.
2. Midfield
   Arsenal’s midfield remains a crucial strength, blending experience and youth effectively. Declan Rice has brought physicality, leadership, and tactical intelligence, transforming Arsenal’s midfield. Martin Ødegaard continues to inspire with his creativity and attacking impetus, while Mikel Merino’s ability to contribute in both defensive and offensive phases has made him an excellent addition to the squad. Thomas Partey and Jorginho provide valuable experience and composure, particularly in high-pressure matches. However, both players are in the final year of their contracts, raising questions about Arsenal’s long-term plans in this area. Reinforcements may be required in the summer to maintain the depth and quality needed for sustained success.

Potential Weaknesses

1. Attack
   Injuries to key players have left Arsenal’s attack exposed at times this season. Bukayo Saka’s absence on the right flank has disrupted the team’s creative output, while Gabriel Jesus’s injury has left a gap in the forward line. Although Raheem Sterling, on loan, has added versatility and experience to the front three, Arsenal still lack a traditional out-and-out striker who can consistently convert chances. Gabriel Martinelli remains a vital outlet on the left wing, but his reliance on cutting inside emphasizes the need for a clinical forward to offer an alternative dimension in attack. While Kai Havertz has deputized as a striker, his skill set is better suited to a supporting role rather than leading the line. Strengthening the attacking options could prove decisive for Arsenal’s title ambitions.
2. Goalkeeper
   Arsenal’s goalkeeper situation is another area that could be addressed. David Raya has established himself as the starter, but with limited backup options, this position poses some risk. Neto, brought in on loan, is a short-term solution, but Arsenal could benefit from investing in a younger, long-term prospect to develop behind Raya.

Arsenal’s squad boasts undeniable quality and depth in many areas, but vulnerabilities in attack and goalkeeping could hinder their ability to compete at the highest level across multiple competitions. Addressing these gaps—either in January or during the summer—will be critical to the Gunners’ continued success.

The Market Landscape

As the transfer deadline approaches, Arsenal’s recruitment team may explore potential targets to address the vulnerabilities in attack and bolster their squad. Here are three players linked with a move to North London, offering varying levels of feasibility:

1. Jhon Duran (Aston Villa)

Jhon Duran is a promising young forward who joined Aston Villa from Chicago Fire in January 2023. Despite his undeniable talent, he has struggled to secure consistent starting minutes in Unai Emery‘s side, often playing second fiddle to Ollie Watkins.

Arsenal could provide Duran with the platform he needs to further develop his career, offering him more opportunities in a team where his pace, physicality, and finishing ability could thrive. Given his current lack of game time, Villa might be open to negotiating a deal, especially if Duran expresses a desire to leave. The 20-year-old’s potential makes him an intriguing and cost-effective option to add depth to Arsenal’s attacking line.

2. Benjamin Šeško (RB Leipzig)

Benjamin Šeško has been a long-standing target for Arsenal, with reports indicating the Gunners have a strong interest in the Slovenian striker. Standing at 6’4″, Šeško is renowned for his physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing, making him an ideal candidate to fill Arsenal’s need for a traditional striker.

However, a move in January seems highly unlikely. Šeško only joined RB Leipzig from Red Bull Salzburg 2 summers ago and has expressed a desire to settle and develop further at the Bundesliga club. Leipzig is also reluctant to part with the forward mid-season, making a summer move more plausible if Arsenal decides to pursue him aggressively.

3. Matheus Cunha (Wolves)

Matheus Cunha is another player Arsenal have been monitoring closely. The Brazilian forward has been instrumental for Wolverhampton Wanderers this season, showcasing his versatility, technical skill, and creativity in attack. Reports suggest Wolves could be willing to sell for a fee of around £65 million, which aligns with Arsenal’s budget if they decide to invest in a high-caliber forward.

However, despite the managers issues with his attitude, Wolves are eager to secure Cunha’s long-term future at Molineux and are reportedly prepared to offer him an extended contract to ward off interest. Arsenal’s ability to tempt Cunha away from Wolves will likely depend on whether the player is keen to test himself at a higher level, with Arsenal offering Champions League football and a chance to compete for major honours.

Arsenal have a variety of options to strengthen their attack, but each comes with its own challenges. Jhon Duran a possible option however is likely to be expensive especially if Villa have no interest in selling, while Benjamin Šeško represents a long-term solution, albeit unlikely in January. Matheus Cunha is an exciting, proven player but could come at a significant cost despite this potentially the most likely signing of the 3, but Wolves may be reluctant to part ways with one of their star performers mid-season and is Cunha the out and out striker arsenal need?

Ultimately, whether Arsenal make a move for one of these players may depend on their willingness to strike a balance between short-term fixes and long-term strategic investments.

The Risks and Rewards of Deadline Day Deals

Deadline day in the transfer window is often a chaotic and high-pressure period, offering clubs the chance to make last-minute adjustments to their squads. For Arsenal, the decision to dive into the market carries significant risks but also potential rewards. Here’s a closer look:

The Rewards

1. Addressing Immediate Squad Needs
   Injuries to key players like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus have exposed Arsenal’s vulnerabilities in attack. A deadline day signing could provide the necessary depth and quality to maintain the team’s momentum across all competitions. Adding a proven goal scorer or versatile forward could make the difference in critical moments.
2. Opportunity to Capitalize on Market Inefficiencies
   Deadline day often sees clubs eager to offload players who are surplus to requirements, creating opportunities for Arsenal to secure quality players at reduced prices. This could be particularly valuable in positions like attack or goalkeeping, where Arsenal may look to bolster their options without overcommitting financially.
3. Injecting Fresh Energy into the Squad
   A new signing can boost morale and inject renewed energy into the team. Whether it’s an emerging talent like Jhon Duran or an experienced forward such as Matheus Cunha, the right player could lift the dressing room and provide a psychological edge for the challenges ahead.

The Risks

1. Panic Buys and Lack of Planning
   The compressed timeframe of deadline day leaves little room for thorough scouting and negotiation. This increases the risk of signing a player who may not fit Arsenal’s tactical setup or long-term vision. Rushed decisions could lead to costly mistakes, both on the pitch and financially.
2. Inflated Transfer Fees
   Clubs often exploit the urgency of deadline day to demand higher fees, especially for in-demand players. Overpaying for a short-term fix could impact Arsenal’s budget and limit their ability to invest in key areas during the summer transfer window.
3. Disrupting Squad Harmony
   Introducing a new player without adequate preparation or integration time could unsettle the existing squad dynamic. This is particularly critical in high-functioning areas like Arsenal’s midfield and defence, where cohesion is a key strength.
4. Limited Availability of Quality Options
   By deadline day, many of the best players are already off the market. Arsenal may be forced to choose between taking a gamble on an unproven player or waiting until the summer for better opportunities. This can lead to an imbalance between short-term needs and long-term planning.

Deadline day deals present a double-edged sword for Arsenal. While they offer a chance to address urgent squad needs and seize last-minute opportunities, the risks of rushed decisions, inflated fees, and limited quality options are significant. For Arsenal, the key will be striking the right balance between acting decisively and maintaining their strategic focus.

With the Gunners competing on multiple fronts, a well-calculated move on deadline day could provide the extra push needed to secure silverware this season. However, patience and prudence may prove equally valuable in ensuring long-term success.

Recent History: Arsenal and January Deadline Day

Arsenal’s activity on January transfer deadline day has been a mix of successes and frustrations, reflecting the club’s cautious approach to mid-season spending. The winter window, typically used for emergency signings or opportunistic moves, has seen Arsenal occasionally dip into the market to address squad needs. Here’s a look at some notable January deadline day moments:

2021: Mat Ryan and Martin Ødegaard (Loan Deals)

Arsenal secured two key additions on deadline day in January 2021. Mat Ryan, the experienced goalkeeper, was brought in on loan from Brighton to provide depth and competition for Bernd Leno. Meanwhile, Martin Ødegaard joined on loan from Real Madrid, offering creativity and technical skill to Arsenal’s midfield. Ødegaard’s impact was significant, leading to his permanent signing later in 2021.

This window highlighted Arsenal’s focus on shrewd, low-risk moves to address immediate needs while keeping future planning in mind.

2018: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

One of Arsenal’s most high-profile January signings came on deadline day in 2018, when the club splashed £56 million to bring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang from Borussia Dortmund. The Gabonese striker’s arrival provided a much-needed boost to Arsenal’s attack, with Aubameyang quickly becoming one of the Premier League’s most prolific forwards.

This deal also set off a transfer domino effect, with Olivier Giroud joining Chelsea and Michy Batshuayi moving to Dortmund. Aubameyang’s signing underscored Arsenal’s ability to make bold moves when necessary.

2011: No Defensive Signing Despite Injuries

January 2011 was a frustrating deadline day for Arsenal fans, as the club failed to address defensive concerns despite significant injuries to key players. While Arsenal were linked with several defenders, no deals materialized, leaving the squad vulnerable for the remainder of the season.

This window highlighted the risks of inaction during the January market, particularly when squad depth is stretched thin.

Arsenal’s recent history with January deadline day has been a mixed bag, featuring both impactful signings like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Nacho Monreal and periods of frustration due to inaction. While the club tends to avoid panic buys, their willingness to invest in the right player at the right time has occasionally paid dividends.

As another deadline day approaches, Arsenal’s fans will be eager to see if the club can replicate the success of past windows by addressing current needs with well-calculated moves.

Fan and Expert Perspectives

The consensus among fans and experts is clear: if Arsenal want to remain serious contenders in the title race and maximize their chances of lifting the Premier League trophy, signing a striker in this transfer window is essential.

With key injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal’s attacking depth is under significant strain. While the team has shown resilience and adaptability, the absence of a clinical, out-and-out striker has become a noticeable gap, especially in matches where breaking down stubborn defenses is critical.

Fans are calling for the club to capitalize on the opportunity to address this weakness, while experts emphasize that investing in a striker would not only bolster Arsenal’s chances in the title race but also ensure they remain competitive in other competitions. A proven goal-scorer could be the decisive factor in turning tight games into crucial victories, especially in the high-pressure moments that define championship-winning campaigns.

Overall, there is a strong belief that a move for the right forward would show ambition and signal Arsenal’s intent to truly challenge for the Premier League crown.