Arsenal's quest for reinforcements has gained urgency, particularly following the injury to Gabriel Jesus. Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has suggested that the north London club should focus their efforts on acquiring Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins and AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori. However, recent developments indicate that securing either player may prove to be a significant challenge for Arsenal.
The Gunners have already had a £45 million bid for Watkins turned down, leading to speculation about a potential renewed offer as the January transfer window approaches its conclusion. The 27-year-old forward, a lifelong supporter of Arsenal, has enjoyed a remarkable season, netting 11 goals and providing nine assists in 32 appearances across all competitions. This brings his overall tally for the current campaign to an impressive 27 goals and 13 assists, underscoring his status as a top-tier striker.
Merson, who has donned the colours of both Arsenal and Aston Villa during his playing career, believes that securing Watkins could be crucial for Arsenal's title aspirations. He has urged the club to submit a £100 million bid, asserting that such an offer would likely be considered by Villa. Merson also views Tomori, who made the switch to Milan from Chelsea for £24 million in 2021, as an excellent addition to strengthen Arsenal's defensive options alongside established centre-backs Gabriel and William Saliba.
During a discussion on Sky Sports, Merson remarked: "I think they need a forward and I would go for Fikayo Tomori. They need a centre half. If you're looking at the all-round package over the next few years, you're looking at a very good player." He praised Tomori's experience at elite clubs, stating: "He has played at a top club for AC Milan and Chelsea, he's played under pressure. That's what you need at a top club like Arsenal."
Merson further highlighted that while Tomori might initially serve as a backup, the dynamics within the squad can shift rapidly: "But Arsenal need back-up and someone who is going to come in like-for-like. As soon as William Saliba or Gabriel come out the team, whoever steps into that defensive line weakens the team. That's no disrespect to them, because the other two are so good." Regarding Watkins, he added: "I'd go get Ollie Watkins. He's proven, he ticks the boxes big time for Arsenal."
Moreover, Merson advised Arsenal supporters to remain patient during this transfer period: "Arsenal have to be patient. Stay patient with Arteta and Arsenal will be there or thereabouts. I would get Watkins. I hear Arsenal fans say he's 29. Who cares? It's for now, next year and the year after. After that, it doesn't matter. Put in £100m! If they do that, I'd be shocked if Villa turned that down!"
Despite the potential advantages of signing both Watkins and Tomori, the likelihood of Arsenal successfully acquiring either player appears slim. Aston Villa's manager, Unai Emery, has made it clear that he is reluctant to part with Watkins, particularly with Jhon Duran poised to leave for Saudi Arabia. Maintaining attacking depth is crucial for Villa as they aim for a top-four finish and progress in the Champions League.
Additionally, interest in Tomori has emerged from Tottenham, with reports suggesting that a deal was discussed. However, the defender opted to remain in Italy despite limited playing time this season, raising questions about his willingness to join Arsenal as a backup option.
Arsenal's search for a striker continues, particularly in light of their title ambitions in competition with Liverpool. Reports indicate that Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface was presented to Arsenal after a potential move to the Saudi Pro League fell through. Boniface has also attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Tottenham, Chelsea, and Aston Villa.
Furthermore, TEAMtalk has revealed that Arsenal is contemplating a bid for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, who is open to a move despite the transfer window nearing its end. The player is eager to explore opportunities in the Premier League. Additionally, Arsenal has been monitoring Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, although the Magpies have no intention of parting with their star forward mid-season, as they plan to negotiate a new contract at the end of the current campaign.