Arteta makes big transfer announcement after Havertz injury

Robin Bairner

14 Feb 2025 10:40 GMT
3 min read

Mikel Arteta, Arsenal, 2024/25 — © IMAGO

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has admitted that his side could dive into the free agent market to sign a centre-forward in order to cover for injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus.

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The Gunners have seen both their senior options for the No.9 role struck down with serious injury in recent weeks, leaving them short of an obvious pick.

STATS

Kai Havertz

F (C)

Arsenal

Kai Havertz

F (C)

Arsenal

38

Games
17

Goals
7

Assists

While Leandro Trossard is expected to fill the position, fresh scrutiny has been cast on the wisdom of the club refusing to buy during the January transfer window.

A bid was made for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, who never appeared likely to go given Jhon Duran was on the verge of a move to the Saudi Pro League at that point, while the Gunners were warned off top target Benjamin Sesko, who is expected to leave in the summer.

In the wake of Havertz’s season-ending hamstring problem, Arteta admits Arsenal may have to take desperate measures.

READ MORE: Premier League top scorers 2024/25

© IMAGO - Kai Havertz: Out for the season with a hamstring injury

Asked about the free agent market, the manager said: “We will explore every possibility.”

Previously, this was an area Arsenal were not thought to be keen to explore.

Fabrizio Romano, for example, tweeted: “Arteta, determined to find solutions internally while staff keeps waiting for Bukayo Saka and Martinelli back.

“The investment on a new striker will be made in the summer.”

Clearly, there has been a change of heart.

What free agents are available?

The free agent pool is full of players who have not been picked up by other clubs and is dominated by veterans who carry baggage.

One of the most obvious examples if former Chelsea striker Diego Costa, who was noted for his bad temper and proneness to being sent off.

Ex-Monaco hitman Wissam Ben Yedder looks like the highest-quality option on the list in terms of footballing ability, yet the former France striker has just seen a move to Venezia break down because of a string of legal accusations ranging from driving under the influence to sexual assault.

Clearly, it would be a highly controversial move if Arsenal were to follow either of these players up.