The possible long-term loss of Arsenal’s main striker, Olivier Giroud, puts Arsene Wenger in a conundrum. Should he dwell late in the market in search of a quality striker or should he replace Giroud with Yaya Sanogo, Joel Campbell, Theo Walcott (injured), Lukas Podolski and marquee signing Alexis Sanchez in the starting lineup?
On paper. it may seem like Arsenal are not short on attacking options but in reality, it is one of their main areas of concern along with a defensive midfielder. Although Yaya Sanogo and Joel Campbell impressed in the Emirates Cup, they are still quite raw in ability and in a couple of years, they might be ready to lead the Arsenal attack.
Theo Walcott is a good option upfront. He offers lightning pace and is very good in making runs behind the defense. But constant injury problems have hindered his progress.
Lukas Podolski has been tried and tested in leading the attack on a number of occasions but has failed to impress. In Alexis Sanchez, Arsenal have a great and lethal attacking option but he will need some time to adjust to the rigors of the Premier League.
With Arsenal possibly losing their first choice striker to injury, here are a few names that could join the Gunners as a replacement.
Loic Remy
With an £8m release clause, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Arsene Wenger purchase the Frenchman from Queens Park Rangers. With an impressive 14 goals and 3 assists in 27 appearances for Newcastle last season, it would not be a bad move by any means. Remy was very closely linked to Liverpool this season but a failed medical caused that deal to collapse. If all things are clear on his medical, Remy could be a great addition to the squad at a cut rate price.
Burak Yilmaz
A name that has not come up much this transfer window for Arsenal but a limited number of quality and affordable options remain scarce in the market. Burak would be a quality addition to this Arsenal side. He offers Champions League experience and has scored 40 goals in his last two seasons in Turkey. At 29 years of age, this would be a temporary fix but it could also be a necessary and decisive one.
Wilfried Bony
On the back of a very good season, it is no surprise that Bony has attracted the attention of many teams across Europe. Valued around £20m, he does offer strength and a huge presence in the air, similar to that of Giroud. His price tag along with Swansea only letting their prized asset leave on a premium price could prove a stumbling block for Arsene Wenger.
Danny Welbeck
A new name that has come up in the transfer market, Danny Welbeck is down in the pecking order in Manchester United and could leave if the right offer comes. Being an Englishman and plying his trade at one of Arsenal’s greatest rivals, a deal doesn’t look clear from the outset as his price could be quite inflated but, if a deal can be thrashed out, Danny would be a great option and could add to Arsenal’s British core.
Jackson Martinez
The most expensive player on this list, Martinez has made a reputation for himself as being one of the most lethal strikers in Europe. Plying his trade in Porto, a move to the Arsenal could pose a huge risk taken by Arsene Wenger because of his augmented price tag. If Arsenal pull off the signing of Jackson Martinez, there would be few Arsenal fans who wouldn’t consider their team to be strong contenders for the title.
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