Sources: Arsenal set sights on signing powerhouse as ‘huge’ funds set aside
The top priority for Arsenal in the summer is to sign a world-class striker with a strong physical presence, Football Insider understands.
The Londoners are not expected to be massive spenders in the main window and are instead likely to concentrate on strengthening a few select positions.
A source with knowledge of Arsenal’s recruitment plans has told Football Insider that the number one priority is a centre-forward.
The profile the club are looking for is a proven, powerful operator under the age of 24.
Arsenal are setting aside “huge” funds, the source added, for fee and wages for the potential signing.
The Gunners missed out on top target Dusan Vlahovic in the January window.
The Serbia international instead joined Juventus in a £66.6million deal from Fiorentina.
Mikel Arteta is short of strikers following the exit of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang earlier this year.
Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah are the only two recognised centre-forwards currently in Arsenal’s squad and both are out of contract at the end of the season.
Lacazette has been leading the line since Aubameyang’s departure and has done so to great effect.
The 30-year-old has contributed six goals and eight assists in 29 games across all competitions.
Arsenal are currently in the driving seat to secure Champions League football for next season.
Arteta’s side are three points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham with a game in hand.
They travel to Crystal Palace on Monday night.
In other news, Danny Mills ‘can’t believe’ what he has heard about Bukayo Saka’s contract talks with Arsenal.