Arsenal are considering several attacking additions ahead of the January transfer window as Mikel Arteta assesses his centre-forward options following inconsistent displays from his current strikers, according to a report by Football London on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. The Gunners have been linked with Christian Kofane, Paris Brunner, Eli Junior Kroupi and Real Madrid youngster Endrick.

Kofane and Brunner are viewed as traditional number-nine prospects, while Kroupi and Endrick offer different qualities in attack. Their emergence as possible targets comes as Kai Havertz and Viktor Gyokeres have struggled to deliver goals consistently this season. Those performances could prompt Arteta to review his options in the upcoming transfer windows.

Away from the transfer speculation, former Arsenal forward Theo Walcott has named a previous teammate he believes was underrated during his time at the Emirates Stadium: Olivier Giroud.

Walcott made the selection during a brief question-and-answer session with Viaplay on Instagram. Asked to identify the most underrated footballer he had played alongside, the former England international immediately named the French striker. His answer reflected the respect Giroud earned from teammates, even though his performances sometimes divided supporters.

Giroud occasionally attracted criticism for missing opportunities, but his overall record at Arsenal was substantial. After joining from Montpellier for approximately £9.6 million, he scored 105 goals in 253 appearances. He also helped the Gunners win three FA Cup trophies, becoming an important contributor during his spell in north London.

One of the most memorable moments of his Arsenal career came against Crystal Palace, when he scored a spectacular scorpion kick. The remarkable effort became a defining goal of his time at the club and earned him the Puskas Award in 2017.

Arsenal eventually sold Giroud to London rivals Chelsea for £18 million in January 2018. The striker enjoyed further success after leaving the Emirates, helping France win the 2018 World Cup before adding the Europa League and Champions League titles with Chelsea.

His international career also brought a significant individual milestone. Giroud temporarily became France's all-time leading goalscorer, holding the record until Kylian Mbappe surpassed him. That achievement further underlined the value he brought to his teams despite sometimes being judged primarily on missed chances.

Although Giroud was not known for exceptional pace, he offered technical quality, aerial ability and intelligent hold-up play. Those attributes allowed him to bring teammates into attacks and provide a physical presence against defenders. His profile arguably matches the type of centre-forward Arteta appreciates. He could lead the line, compete for crosses and link play with midfielders, giving his side a dependable focal point even when goals were not forthcoming.

Arsenal fans demonstrated their appreciation when Giroud returned to the Emirates with Lille last month. The Frenchman received a warm reception during their Champions League meeting, reflecting the lasting impression he made during his years in north London.

Chelsea’s £18 million purchase initially appeared reasonable for a 31-year-old striker. However, Giroud’s achievements after leaving Arsenal have strengthened the argument that Chelsea secured an excellent bargain from their London rivals.