Mikel Arteta fumes at Newcastle’s winning goal against Arsenal
Former Liverpool star Jamie Carragher has told Mikel Arteta that he must address two significant issues in his squad during the January transfer window if Arsenal are to push for the Premier League title. The Gunners have made a strong start to the season, though their defeat at the hands of Newcastle highlighted the weaknesses in their team.
Although Anthony Gordon’s goal at St James’ Park has been overshadowed by controversy, Arsenal’s display left plenty to be desired and their absence of a world-class No 9 was apparent. Speaking after the game, Carragher told Sky Sports that the Emirates Stadium outfit need reinforcements at both ends of the pitch if they are to push Manchester City for the title.
“Have Arsenal got a centre-forward and a goalkeeper who can win you the league? I don’t think they have. When you think of vital positions where teams win leagues, it’s in both boxes,” said the former England international. “‘It wasn’t a mistake as such to replace Aaron Ramsdale, as Ramsdale wasn’t going to win you the league. But the guy he’s chosen (David Raya) right now to come in is absolutely all over the place.” Express Sport takes a look at four stars who could bolster Arsenal’s title chances in January…
Ivan Toney (Brentford)
It is no secret that the Gunners are keen on Ivan Toney, and recent reports of his £100million valuation are unlikely to deter the interest. The striker possesses all of the qualities that Arsenal lack in the final third, and acquiring the services of the Brentford star would be another major sign of intent from the north Londoners given that Chelsea and Tottenham are also monitoring his situation closely.
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Santiago Gimenez (Feyenoord)
Feyenoord have made a sensational start to the season in the Eredivisie, with Santiago Gimenez playing a central role in that success. The Mexico international has scored 13 goals and assisted three in 11 league appearances, and the striker could be a more cost-efficient way for Arsenal to address their lack of a focal point in the final third. Top clubs around Europe are also interested in Gimenez, though being the final piece of the puzzle in a team challenging for the Premier League could prove persuasive.
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Stefan Ortega (Manchester City)
The idea of City improving Arsenal’s squad in the heart of a title race is hard to fathom, but Stefan Ortega is exactly the type of goalkeeper that Arsenal are lacking. The German shot-stopper has been excellent when called upon by Pep Guardiola, with his ability to play out from the back making him the ideal alternative to Ederson at the Etihad Stadium. However, Ortega is more than capable of being a No 1 at a top club and the Gunners could be tempted to tap into their relationship with City to sign the 30-year-old.
Wojciech Szczesny (Juventus)
With Raya seen as a long-term goalkeeper at Arsenal, signing a shot-stopper who is willing to play second fiddle at the Emirates in the future due to their adoration for the club could be the way forward for Arteta. Thus, signing Wojciech Szczesny could be a logical option. The Poland international is shining for Juventus and is capable of being the No 1 in the short term before dropping down to being the No 2 while adding experience to the dressing room behind the scenes.
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