Arsenal is contemplating a transfer for a ‘extraordinary’ striker following the realisation that a deal for Ollie Watkins is no longer feasible.

Arsenal is contemplating a transfer for a ‘extraordinary’ striker following the realisation that a deal for Ollie Watkins is no longer feasible.

Arsenal is anticipated to encounter difficulties in their endeavour to acquire Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins. As we approach the concluding three days of the winter transfer window, the Gunners continue to engage actively in the market.

Mikel Arteta continues to express optimism regarding the acquisition of a new centre-forward prior to the impending deadline on Monday.Earlier in the week, Arsenal’s initial proposal for Watkins was declined, and a subsequent offer for the Aston Villa player was anticipated.

Arsenal is contemplating a late acquisition of Dusan Vlahovic; however, there exists an obstacle. Dusan Vlahovic has been a subject of interest for Arsenal for an extended period. The Serbian international was sought by Arteta as a replacement for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang several years prior.

At that moment, Vlahovic declined their offer and chose to join Juventus. The circumstances have not entirely unfolded as anticipated for the 24-year-old in Turin, and TBR Football has verified that Juventus is prepared to transfer Vlahovic during this window.

Nevertheless, the Gunners have come to the realisation that they are unable to secure the Englishman following Aston Villa’s transfer of Jhon Duran to Al Nassr. It is highly improbable that Unai Emery will part with his other striker during the same transfer window. Arsenal is currently assessing the feasibility of acquiring an additional striker.

Rudy Galetti has recently asserted on TeamTalk that Arsenal is contemplating submitting a proposal to acquire the Juventus player over the weekend, having come to the realisation that securing Watkins is not feasible.

However, there exists an issue. The report asserts that while Juventus is amenable to the sale of Vlahovic, they prefer to secure a successor prior to proceeding with the transaction; Randal Kolo Muani is considered insufficient to fulfil their needs for the remainder of the season.

A comparative analysis of the statistics for Ollie Watkins and Dusan Vlahovic for the 2024/25 season. Arsenal has been monitoring Vlahovic for several years; however, he has not been prioritised as their primary target in any of the recent transfer windows.

Arteta has recently favoured alternative forwards, and the attempt to secure Watkins prior to Vlahovic indicates that the player from Aston Villa was the primary target. However, what do their statistics indicate? Games Goals Assists Minutes per goal and minutes per assist Ollie Watkins 32 11 9 203 248 Dušan Vlahović 27, 12, 2, 166, 996 Statistics for Ollie Watkins and

Dusan Vlahovic for the 2024/25 season (accurate as of January 31, 2025). Vlahovic’s goal ratio is marginally superior to that of Watkins this season; however, the Aston Villa standout excels considerably in generating opportunities for his teammates. This is likely the reason why Arteta favours the Englishman, as his demonstrated track record in the Premier League serves as a significant advantage.

Nevertheless, should a pursuit of Watkins prove entirely unfeasible, Arsenal must explore alternative options, and Vlahovic would certainly represent a commendable choice. Should Juventus successfully acquire a new striker, they are prepared to transfer Vlahovic for a sum that is “slightly less” than his original valuation of £54.4 million.

The striker is receptive to the prospect of a transfer to the Premier League as well. Arsenal has yet to reach a conclusive decision; however, the potential acquisition of Vlahovic, who was lauded as a ‘extraordinary’ striker by Dragan Stojkovic in a recent interview with FIFA, is currently under serious consideration in light of the impending transfer deadline on Monday.