Arsenal are planning for another spending spree at the end of the season.
Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus are currently the striker options, but the latter’s future has been uncertain for some period of time.
The Brazilian’s contract expires in June next year, and he could move to Serie A, with AC Milan and Juventus keen on securing his services.
Yesterday’s performance against Crystal Palace once again showed that the Gunners may need to part ways with him for a younger replacement.
The 29-year-old failed to capitalise on an early chance. He curled his effort beyond goalkeeper Dean Henderson, only to hit the woodwork in the fourth minute.
He had another opportunity in the 12th minute after being put through on goal by Noni Madueke. The Brazilian never looked confident and failed to beat Henderson.
Madueke delivered another superb cross 10 minutes later. Jesus should have headed on goal but slashed his effort off target. It should have been an easy hat-trick.
Jesus did make amends with a goal prior to the break, but his performance on the day showed why manager Mikel Arteta has been reluctant to start him in the league.
The £45 million signing won just two out of eight duels contested, committing three fouls.
In our view, the club should pursue a replacement for the 29-year-old in the next transfer window. He appears past his prime since his serious knee injury in January last year.
There has been plenty of talk about Arsenal pursuing a deal for Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez. He is seen as someone who can operate upfront orin a left-wing position.
If Arsenal were to choose a third-choice striker who can play backup, Club Brugge’s Nicolo Tresoldi could emerge as an option. Sporting director Andrea Berta has already opened talks.
Stats from Sofascore.com