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Arsenal could face a major headache in the January transfer window as concerns grow over their attacking options.
Mikel Arteta’s forward line has struggled to deliver consistently, leaving the Gunners facing questions over whether they have enough firepower to sustain their challenge for major honours.
Gabriel Jesus’ departure during the summer has only added to the pressure, with the Brazilian now finding his feet and impressing at Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s remaining options have not all enjoyed the starts they would have hoped for, potentially forcing the club to reconsider their plans up front.
Now, a fresh report suggests one of Arteta’s forwards could be ready to push for an early exit, creating another problem for the Arsenal boss.
According to TEAMtalk, Viktor Gyökeres is ready to push for a January departure from Arsenal, with frustration over his lack of Premier League starts becoming a major factor in his thinking.
The Sweden international arrived from Sporting CP in 2025 after Arsenal chose him ahead of Benjamin Šeško, who subsequently joined Manchester United. Gyökeres made a significant contribution to the Gunners’ title-winning campaign, scoring 21 goals in all competitions.
However, his position has become increasingly uncertain this season. TEAMtalk reports that the striker has yet to start a Premier League match, leaving him concerned about his role under Arteta despite continuing to perform well for Sweden.
The report identifies two key reasons behind his desire to leave: his lack of regular first-team opportunities and Arsenal’s ongoing pursuit of another high-profile striker.
The Gunners’ interest in Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez is particularly significant. Arsenal reportedly spent much of the summer exploring a deal for the Argentine, who ultimately remained in Madrid after expressing a preference for Barcelona.
That pursuit has raised questions about how central Gyökeres remains to Arsenal’s long-term plans. With the club still keen on Álvarez and Kai Havertz currently preferred up front, the Swede could find opportunities even harder to come by if another striker arrives.
TEAMtalk also reports that intermediaries are already assessing potential destinations ahead of January. Atlético Madrid remain interested, while clubs in the Premier League, Italy and Germany are also potential options.
Arsenal could reportedly be willing to consider a departure as they look to strengthen their own attacking options.
Losing Gyökeres — recently described as “incredible” by Arteta — after just over a year would represent a significant turnaround, particularly given the investment made to bring him to north London. However, if the striker continues to struggle for starts, a January separation could become increasingly realistic.