While Arsenal pursue Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, another young striker with Premier League experience, Jhon Duran, is attracting European interest.
The Colombian forward is set to leave Al-Nassr just six months after joining for €77 million. Despite scoring 12 goals in 18 appearances (averaging a goal every 90 minutes) for the Saudi club, Duran is pushing for a return to Europe after failing to settle off the pitch.
At just 21, he is available, experienced in the Premier League, and eager to move. Arsenal need a striker, but they are focused elsewhere.
Duran was a valuable squad player at Aston Villa, scoring important goals, showing physical presence, and proving he could compete in the Premier League.
Still, his potential was never fully unlocked due to limited starts behind Ollie Watkins.
Now, clubs like Fenerbahce are prepared to go all-in for him. Jose Mourinho is personally driving talks, and Duran has not rejected their approach. Reports say other European clubs have made serious offers too.
So where are Arsenal?
The club continue to prioritise targets like Sesko and Gyokeres — both talented, but untested in the Premier League. Arsenal have struggled with goal-scoring in recent seasons, wary of adaptation periods for new signings.
Sesko may be the longer-term play, but Arsenal need a striker who can contribute immediately in August. Gyokeres has strong numbers in Portugal, while Duran has shown promise in the Premier League.
Duran is younger than Gyokeres and could cost less via a loan deal. This could allow Arsenal to invest further up the pitch, particularly with needs at left wing and right-back.
Yet, for reasons unknown, the Gunners have stayed silent. There has been no serious link to Duran this summer, no indication that Mikel Arteta is even looking his way.
This feels like an opportunity wasted — again.
With Duran potentially on his way to Turkey or elsewhere, Arsenal could see a striker with Premier League experience thrive in another league while they pursue players who may need time to adapt.
When a squad is this close to winning, hesitation hurts. Arsenal cannot afford to overlook ready-made solutions in pursuit of perfection.