‘Number one priority’ emerges for Arsenal as ideal striker profile revealed

Arsenal are ready to invest in a centre-forward this summer and a report has revealed the exact profile of player they are looking for.

There could be plenty of changes to the Arsenal forward line ahead of the new season. Current strikers Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are out of contract at the end of June. It is clear they require an evolution in the position.

Lacazette – who assumed the role of club captain following the departure of another striker, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, to Barcelona this winter – could yet extend his stay with the club.

According to L’Equipe, the Frenchman could sign a short-term extension to his contract. Turning 31 in May, though, Arsenal will not be making too big a commitment.

Indeed, they faced a similar dilemma with Aubameyang at a similar stage of his career. They ultimately came to regret investing heavily into a new deal, from which they never really got the expected return.

But there is enough faith in Lacazette for him to stick around for at least another season. In doing so, he would help make the transition in their frontline smoother.

However, the ex-Lyon star will likely understand that competition for his place will be arriving regardless of what he decides to do. Arsenal have already been working to improve their options up front.

In January, they wanted to take Dusan Vlahovic from Fiorentina. However, the Serbian stayed in Serie A by signing for Juventus in a big-money move.

Arsenal aiming to add powerful striker

Now, Arsenal are preparing to make a costly signing of their own in the position. According to Football Insider, they are “setting aside huge funds” to bring in a new number nine.

The report claims strengthening in that position is their “number one priority”. Therefore, they are willing to spend big both in terms of a transfer fee and wages.

Various candidates to fill the vacancy have been mentioned in other reports. None are referred to by Football Insider, but they do give more details about the criteria encompassing the options.

Arsenal are apparently looking for a “proven, powerful operator” who must be less than 24 years old.

That should whittle down their shortlist to a few names. The likes of Alexander Isak and Lautaro Martinez have been linked and may remain on the agenda with that in mind, to speculate a couple.

Only time will tell who Arsenal are able to attract in the transfer window. The increasing chance of securing a return to Champions League football should boost their appeal.

READ MORE: Arsenal make firm transfer move for in-demand Leeds United star

 

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