Arsenal are reportedly on the lookout for a forward following Kai Havertz’s lengthy absence due to a knee injury.
This marks Havertz’s second injury of 2025, having previously sustained a hamstring tear during a training camp in Dubai in February, which sidelined him for the rest of the 2024-25 season.
The club will likely need to invest to fill their new gap in the forward line, and we’ve pinpointed five potential targets Arsenal should consider for signing.
Nicolas Jackson
Although Arsenal initially passed on the opportunity to sign Jackson earlier this summer, the injury to Havertz could lead them back to the Chelsea forward.
The 24-year-old is currently deemed surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge, but his £80million asking price has yet to attract any clubs.
Jackson remains unrefined but shows potential, and Arteta is known for developing project players. Should the price be lowered in the coming weeks, a move for the Senegal striker to the Emirates could be possible.
Ollie Watkins
Arsenal made a £40million bid for Watkins that was ultimately unsuccessful during the January transfer window, but they may revisit their interest in the Aston Villa forward.
With Villa willing to sell the striker to comply with PSR regulations, Watkins would provide a smart short-term solution for Arteta’s squad.
Arsenal legend Tony Adams has already questioned the decision to pursue Viktor Gyokeres over the England international this summer.
“The lad from the Portuguese League, we don’t know yet, he’s untested,” Adams stated.
“I would have preferred to see them go for Ollie Watkins; if he’s a Gunner, he could have given us a year, and we might have clinched the title.”
Ademola Lookman
Lookman, who has thrived since joining Atalanta, has gone on strike to attempt to secure a transfer away from the Serie A side, and Arsenal is among several Premier League clubs interested in him.
Journalist Graeme Bailey informed TBR: “Lookman is deeply frustrated about not moving to Inter; he had set his sights on Milan and even submitted a transfer request, which is quite unusual these days.
“His representatives are exploring options, with several prominent clubs in England showing interest.
“Tottenham’s pursuit of Savinho has stalled, Arsenal still requires a new left winger, and Chelsea has yet to finalize the Garnacho deal.
“City might still need to find a replacement for Savinho, while Aston Villa has just sold Jacob Ramsey– it’s easy to see why Lookman’s representatives are engaging with these Premier League clubs.”
Given Lookman’s availability and Arsenal’s ambitions for the Premier League title, this move might feasibly materialize before the end of August.
Rodrygo
Rodrygo has been Arsenal’s ideal target throughout the summer, and Havertz’s injury may expedite attempts to secure the Real Madrid star prior to the transfer deadline.
With Manchester City reportedly bowing out of the contention after opting to retain Savinho, the Gunners now have a clear path to pursue the 24-year-old.
Having been omitted from Madrid’s opening La Liga lineup, Rodrygo is said to be open to a Premier League move, making him a significant signing for Mikel Arteta that would enhance his attacking options.
Lee Kang-in
Arsenal reportedly hold an advantage over Manchester United in the pursuit of Lee Kang-in, as discussions about the PSG forward’s future intensify.
The South Korean international is contemplating leaving PSG this summer to secure more playing time, according to CaughtOffside.
Arsenal, United, and Napoli are all monitoring the situation closely and may soon initiate talks.
However, Arsenal are said to be the sole club to have made direct contact regarding Lee, thanks to their sporting director Andrea Berta.
The 24-year-old is considered a player who could excel in the Premier League due to his impressive technical skills.
Image Source: Kai Havertz @ Instagram
