Arsenal have earmarked Atletico Madrid’s Julián Álvarez and Bournemouth’s Eli Kroupi Junior as potential targets to bolster their attack in the winter transfer window, according to CaughtOffside.
After a successful 2025-26 campaign that finally ended Arsenal’s wait of more than two decades for a Premier League title, the club entered the summer transfer window looking to strengthen an already impressive squad.
Ambitious deals for Ezri Konsa and Bruno Guimaraes were completed, but adding to the attack was another priority, particularly following the departures of Leandro Trossard, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus.
Arsenal explored a move for Morgan Rogers and also made an ambitious effort to bring in Vinicius. However, neither pursuit resulted in a deal, with Rogers eventually joining Chelsea in a big-money transfer while Vinicius committed his future to Madrid by signing a contract extension.
The Gunners ultimately finished the summer with Chritos Tzolis as their only attacking addition, leaving him as the squad’s sole natural left winger. That situation has since raised the possibility of Arsenal pursuing another forward when the next transfer window opens.
Now, according to CaughtOffside, Arsenal could explore attacking reinforcements in the winter transfer window and have shortlisted Alvarez and Kroupi as potential targets.
For Alvarez, the report adds that the centre-forward is identified as the more ambitious target due to his ability to play across the frontline and his potential to make an immediate impact.
Audacious double swoop
Still, the Premier League champions need to confirm the Argentine international is the missing piece in their attack before committing funds, as Atletico could demand a fee in excess of £100m, the report adds.
On the other hand, Kroupi is viewed as a younger prospect with long-term potential, although his surgery after suffering a metatarsal injury places a risk on any potential transfer, according to the report.
CaughtOffside adds that the Frenchman would be a more affordable option, although Arsenal will need to be fully convinced he has recovered from his injury before making a move.
Mikel Arteta has overseen a 100% start to the 2026-27 campaign. He most recently led his side to a 2-1 win over London rivals Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
Notably, Viktor Gyokeres started the game from the bench and came under scrutiny after a subpar cameo. As a result, links to other high-profile centre-forwards come as no surprise.
Among the two options being shortlisted, Arsenal should prioritise a move for Alvarez due to his ability to make an immediate impact compared to Kroupi, valued at £60m by Transfermarkt, who will need time to build match fitness following a lengthy injury layoff.
Mikel Arteta arsenal
Mikel Arteta arsenal