Arsenal have started their Premier League title defence perfectly after reshaping Mikel Arteta’s squad during the summer transfer window.
The Gunners have collected nine points from their opening three league matches. Their latest victory came against Chelsea on September 6.
Arsenal also strengthened several areas during the summer. Bruno Guimaraes, Ezri Konsa, Piero Hincapie, Christos Tzolis and Illan Meslier arrived.
However, significant attacking experience left the Emirates before the deadline. Gabriel Martinelli joined Al Hilal for £60M, while Gabriel Jesus moved to Barcelona.
Leandro Trossard also departed for Besiktas, leaving Arteta with fewer established attacking options. Arsenal had explored a summer move for Julian Alvarez but failed to secure him.
The club could now return to the market when the January transfer window opens.
According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal have shortlisted Julian Alvarez and Eli Junior Kroupi as two potential attacking targets.
Alvarez represents the more established option after Arsenal explored a summer deal for the Atletico Madrid forward. However, his preference for Barcelona prevented negotiations from progressing.
Arsenal could make another attempt in January if his situation at Atletico changes. Any agreement would likely require a substantial transfer fee.
Meanwhile, Kroupi would offer Arsenal a younger alternative. The 20-year-old scored 13 goals across 33 Premier League appearances for Bournemouth last season.
He can operate centrally or move into wider attacking areas. However, a fractured metatarsal and subsequent surgery could complicate Arsenal’s January interest.
The Gunners would therefore need assurances over his recovery before committing to a major investment.
Arsenal’s summer departures have reduced Arteta’s attacking options despite the arrival of Tzolis. Eberechi Eze also provides another solution from the left.
Alvarez can operate as a striker, second forward or from wider positions. Kroupi would instead represent a younger option with significant room for development.
Arsenal have yet to make their choice between the two different profiles. Their January approach could depend on Alvarez’s situation and Kroupi’s recovery.
