Arsenal
Arsenal could return to the transfer market for Alex Baena as Mikel Arteta considers his attacking options, as per the latest transfer news. The Gunners have renewed their interest in the Atletico Madrid winger. His versatility could appeal to Mikel Arteta as the Premier League club assess their attacking options.
Arsenal Revisit Their Interest in Alex Baena
As reported by SportsMole, Alex Baena is not a new name on the Arsenal shortlist. The club has been interested in the Spaniard’s signature since the 2024 season, when the player moved from Villarreal to Atletico Madrid. Now, they are considering bringing him to North London again.
The 25-year-old has had a dream start to the campaign, scoring five goals and providing three assists in all competitions. This has made him a coveted asset for teams in need of quality attackers. Baena can play on both wings and in central positions, which could give Arteta more flexibility in attack. Instead of signing a forward for a specific position, the coach would get a player who can fit in several roles.
Andrea Berta, the sporting director of the north London football club, may also be able to help the club. He was at Atletico Madrid for 12 years before moving to the Emirates, which means he knows the Spanish market well. But his past connections do not mean that a deal will be done easily.
Alex Baena’s 2026/2027 stats for Atletico Madrid, as per FOTMOB :
Competition Matches Goals Assists Chances created
La Liga 9 5 2 20
Champions League 3 0 1 3
Bukayo Saka’s Injury Adds to Arsenal’s Concerns
Saka’s latest injury has added to Arsenal’s need for more options. The England winger was forced off during the Champions League draw with Bayern Munich. His injury came early in the match and raised concerns about his fitness. Saka remains a key part of Arteta’s attack. He provides goals, creates chances and stretches defences from the right. Losing him for a long period would leave a major gap in the team.
Arsenal have other attacking players, but each has a role to play. Noni Madueke can feature on the right, while Eberechi Eze offers creativity across the front line. Yet, injuries can quickly limit the choices available to Arteta. This is why Baena could be a useful option. He would not need to copy Saka’s role in every match. Instead, his ability to play in different areas could give Arsenal more ways to attack.
The Gunners cannot depend on Saka to carry their attack throughout the season. He remains a key player, but regular rotation can help manage his workload. Adding another versatile attacker could reduce the pressure on the England international. Arsenal’s latest situation highlights why transfer planning matters. Injuries can change a club’s priorities quickly, even when the existing squad is performing well.
Arsenal
Could Baena Be the Right Signing for Arsenal?
Baena could offer Arteta a useful mix of creativity and flexibility. His ability to play across the frontline would allow Arsenal to change their attacking shape during matches.
He could also provide cover on the right without being limited to Saka’s role. That would give Arteta another option when facing teams that defend deep or leave little space between their defensive lines.
However, Arsenal must consider the financial side of the deal. Atletico Madrid are unlikely to let an important player leave easily in January. A mid-season transfer could require a higher fee than a summer move.
The club must also decide how Baena would fit into its long-term plans. Signing him only as injury cover may not justify a major investment. His role after Saka returns should be part of the decision.
Also Read: Noni Madueke wanted by Juventus as Arsenal exit looms
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