Arsenal’s activity in the summer transfer window has been relatively subdued, with the club securing only two first-team signings: Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad and Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna. As the transfer deadline approaches, there has been speculation about a surprising late move by Arsenal for Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez.
With limited options in the striking department, especially due to the injury of Gabriel Jesus, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has been relying on Kai Havertz to fill the void up front. This situation has reportedly led to Arsenal’s interest in adding another forward, with Nunez emerging as a potential target.
Nunez, the Uruguayan forward, has not featured in the starting lineup for either of Liverpool’s first two Premier League matches this season under new manager Arne Slot. Slot has preferred a front three consisting of Luis Diaz, Mohamed Salah, and Diogo Jota. This has fueled rumors about Nunez’s potential availability, suggesting that Arsenal might capitalize on the situation to bolster their attacking options.
However, leading transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has firmly dismissed the possibility of Nunez leaving Liverpool this summer. According to Romano, despite the speculation, Nunez is fully committed to Liverpool and satisfied with the tactical approach under Slot’s management. Romano has guaranteed that Nunez will not be departing Anfield in this transfer window, emphasizing that the player remains focused on his role within the team.
Although it appears increasingly unlikely that Arsenal will be able to secure Nunez, there have been additional reports linking the club to other striking options. Football Insider recently suggested that Mikel Arteta could consider a last-minute move for Brentford’s Ivan Toney. Toney, who has proven himself as a reliable goalscorer in the Premier League, could provide the attacking reinforcement that Arsenal needs.
However, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has reported that Toney is on the verge of a significant move to Saudi Arabia, with Al-Ahli reportedly close to finalizing a lucrative deal for the striker. This development could further complicate Arsenal’s search for a forward, as Toney was seen as one of the few viable options late in the transfer window.
In summary, Arsenal’s pursuit of additional striking options faces several hurdles. While the club explored the possibility of signing Darwin Nunez from Liverpool, the player’s commitment to his current club has made a transfer unlikely. Similarly, hopes of acquiring Ivan Toney appear slim, as the player is nearing a move to Saudi Arabia. With the transfer window closing soon, Arsenal may have to explore alternative solutions or continue to rely on their current squad until January.