Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has firmly dismissed speculation linking the Gunners with a move for a high-profile center forward this summer following his side’s 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in their 2024-2025 Premier League opener.
Despite links to several top strikers, including Super Eagles’ Victor Osimhen, Arteta made it clear that the Gunners are not in the market for a new striker.
Speaking to talkSPORT via Skysports, Arteta emphasized his confidence in the current squad, particularly in Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz. “I have faith in Kai [Havertz], we have faith in Gabriel [Jesus]. [Leandro] Trossard has played in that position,” Arteta said. “So we have different qualities in there, and the best thing we can do is trust the players that we have and try to improve them. They are so good and so willing, and that's what we focus on.”
Implications for Osimhen’s future amid Arsenal’s stance
Arteta’s declaration has significant implications for Victor Osimhen, whose future remains uncertain as the summer transfer window nears its end. Earlier reports suggested that Arsenal had made a tentative approach for the Napoli striker, but with Arteta's comments, it seems the North London club is no longer pursuing his signature.
Osimhen, who has already agreed to personal terms with Paris Saint-Germain, is still waiting for a concrete move. However, PSG must first offload a player before making a formal bid. Chelsea have also been linked with a move for Victor Osimhen in recent weeks, with reports suggesting a potential three-way swap deal involving the Nigerian striker, Romelu Lukaku, and Cesare Casadei.
