Reliable sources reporting that Arsenal's attempts to sign a forward before the transfer deadline have failed, with mooted deals for David Villa and Steven Jovetic being dead rubbers.

The Italian transfer window has closed, and it is believed that Fiorentina rejected the bid for Jovetic due to not being able to sign a replacement in time. The David Villa deal has been well documented, and it appears that Barcelona are forcing him to stay put, basically, because they can. What lovely fellows.

This leaves Arsenal in a potentially sticky position, with only one conventional striker and two other forwards that have mixed results through the middle. The real issue for Arsenal is defensive organization, but goals win games. Look at United.

The transfer window isn't closed yet, and the BBC have mentioned that Arsenal are in talks for a number of players.

Best striker of AFCON

Not to worry though, as Arsene Wenger has been talking about a forgotten forward (willingly forgotten) at Arsenal - Gervinho.

He pointed out that the Ivorian is the 'best striker at the Cup of Nations', and he is right to a degree. The winger has two goals and an assist in the group stages and is staking a claim to be the player of the tournament there.

Of course, we all know what he's like at Arsenal, and Wenger is mildly unbalanced if he thinks Arsenal fans can be convinced about his abilities now.

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