Now that the dust has settled on Arsenal’s uneventful January transfer window, many fans are still questioning what went wrong.
The club’s failure to bring in a new striker—despite Gabriel Jesus’ injury and Kai Havertz carrying the burden—has left supporters frustrated, especially after their Carabao Cup semi-final exit to Newcastle.
Some argue the club lacked ambition, while others see it as a strategic decision ahead of a crucial summer.
The Striker Search That Led Nowhere
Arsenal had every intention of being active in the transfer market, but their efforts didn’t materialize into signings.
Red Bull Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko was on their radar, but the German club refused to sell in January.
Arsenal also explored moves for Bayern Munich’s Mathys Tel and AC Milan’s Alvaro Morata but didn’t push forward, believing neither player was the right fit.
Instead of making a panic signing, Arsenal prioritized long-term strategy over short-term fixes.
While that decision may prove wise in the long run, it left the squad worryingly thin.
Injuries to Gabriel Martinelli and Jesus only reinforced the need for reinforcements, but Arsenal stuck to their disciplined recruitment approach.
Ollie Watkins and the Late-Market Opportunity
A late bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins revealed Arsenal’s desire to strengthen their attack, but the deal never progressed.
Villa were reportedly open to selling either Watkins or Jhon Duran to manage their financial situation under the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
However, with Duran receiving a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia, Arsenal’s bid for Watkins fell short of Villa’s valuation.
This was not a case of blind panic. Arsenal’s pursuit was data-driven, analyzing Watkins’ age, attacking contributions, and defensive work rate.
The club remains firm in its recruitment principles, even when fans demand more aggressive moves.
Interim Sporting Director Under the Microscope
One of the key figures in Arsenal’s transfer business was interim sporting director Jason Ayto.
Following Edu’s departure in late 2024, Ayto took charge during a critical period.
With fans desperate for a signing, he had the chance to make a splash by signing players like Tel or Morata.
Instead, he remained patient and followed the club’s long-term plan.
Some fans might see Ayto’s caution as a missed opportunity, but within the club, his measured approach has earned respect.
Whether this strengthens his case for securing the permanent role remains to be seen, but Arsenal insiders believe his strategy aligns with their vision.
The Big Summer Spending Plan
Arsenal’s quiet January suggests one thing—big spending is coming this summer.
The club aims to build a squad capable of winning not just one Premier League title but multiple, along with a long-awaited Champions League triumph.
Martin Zubimendi, who has a £52 million release clause at Real Sociedad, is expected to arrive as Arsenal prepares for the departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey.
Additionally, the club is keen on signing a versatile attacker, with Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams and Wolves’ Matheus Cunha among the names on their shortlist.
However, the headline signing will be a new center-forward.
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak remains the dream target, though his price tag—believed to exceed £120 million—makes the deal challenging.
Arsenal will assess their options, with Sesko emerging as a more realistic target.
The Slovenian striker reportedly has a new release clause in his contract, set to become active this summer.
Matheus Cunha’s Release Clause Revealed
Speaking of attacking reinforcements, Wolves forward Matheus Cunha has a release clause of £62 million.
Unlike some clauses that apply only to Champions League clubs, Cunha’s clause is open to any interested team.
Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham, Aston Villa, and Nottingham Forest have all monitored the Brazilian international, making him a hot commodity in the summer market.
His recent contract extension keeps him tied to Wolves long-term, but his release clause ensures he will be a name to watch.
Chelsea’s Transfer Plans Still in Motion
Chelsea, despite their own financial balancing act, continue to monitor young talents.
Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly and Sporting Lisbon’s Dario Essugo remain on their radar after the club opted to sign Mathis Amougou from St. Etienne in January.
Meanwhile, Malo Gusto has switched to leading agency Wasserman, signaling potential future moves in his career.
Chelsea’s midfield recruitment remains a priority, and they are expected to revisit their targets in the summer.
Spurs and Juventus Eyeing Tottenham’s Rising Star
Ellis Lehane, an 18-year-old Tottenham academy striker, is attracting attention from Juventus and AC Milan. Lecce made a late offer in January, but Spurs rejected it.
Lehane has impressed with seven goals in 14 games for the Under-18s this season, making him a valuable prospect for the club’s future.
However, growing European interest could test Tottenham’s resolve to keep him.
What’s Next? The Summer Market Will Define the Season
The January window may have been quiet, but the summer will be anything but.
Arsenal, Chelsea, and Spurs are all preparing for major moves, with financial considerations playing a crucial role.
Arsenal’s strategy will come under heavy scrutiny, and fans will expect big names to arrive after a winter of patience.
With Cunha, Zubimendi, and Isak among the top targets, Arsenal’s summer spending could reshape the club’s trajectory.
The pressure is on to deliver—because come next season, there will be no excuses.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
Share on Facebook «||» Share on Twitter «||» Share on Reddit «||» Share on LinkedIn