Arsenal learn shock Raphinha January transfer chance on one condition as bid rejected
Arsenal's significant lack of firepower in the final third was blatant to see at Brighton. After being pegged back from the penalty spot in controversial fashion, the Gunners were unable to find a winner.
Liverpool's surprise draw with Manchester United means Mikel Arteta's men will be kicking themselves. It added further emphasis on their need for new blood in the final third.
Bukayo Saka's injury means Arteta is faced with limited options. The list of forwards being linked with the Emirates Stadium has grown by the day but they face competition from some of Europe's top teams.
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So, with that in mind, football.london has taken a look at the latest news around Arsenal in the January transfer window.
Nico Williams loss offers chance
One player who was on Arsenal's radar in the summer is Nico Williams. The Athletic Bilbao and Spain star impressed at Euro 2024 and was identified as a potential wide recruit for the Gunners.
However, according to Football Transfers, Barcelona are prioritising the forward and are prepared to sell Raphinha as part of their bid to sign him. Williams has a £48million release clause in his contract and Barca are thought to be willing to activate that.
To do that, they must sell Raphinha to raise funds and free up a registration spot.
football.london says: "Nico Williams has been my ideal target for Arsenal out wide for some time. I thought they should have moved for him in the summer. But if he isn't attainable this month, Raphinha would be perfect.
"The Brazilian, like Williams, has been on the Gunners' radar for some time. He fits the profile perfectly as to what Arteta needs on the right, being a left-footed forward. Barca's desire to sign Williams means Raphinha could be available at the perfect time.
"But if Arteta does want Williams, it makes little sense bringing Raphinha in and letting Barca get the Bilbao star. It may be a deal to consider but look at the bigger picture."
Opening bid rejected
On the subject of incomings, Arsenal have reportedly seen an opening offer for Botafogo star Igor Jesus. According to Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte, the Gunners' loan proposal for the 23-year-old was swiftly turned down.
Jesus, who has netted eight goals in 31 games this season, is said to have caught the eye of teams in Europe after scoring 43 times for Shabab Al-Ahli. The report from Brazil states that Botafogo aren't willing to loan him out but would be open to a permanent sale.
It's claimed £20million would be enough to tempt them.
football.london says: "The supporters' frustration has been the lack of activity and willingness to spend the money to improve the squad. One thing Arsenal have got right is limiting the millions they waste on players.
"A player with just eight goals in Brazil isn't what Arsenal need, or want. They need someone who is going to immediately hit the ground running and help them go above Liverpool in the Premier League.
"£20m is a lot to pay for a player who doesn't improve what you already have."