Arsenal are riding high at the top of the Premier League table, but injuries to key forwards have exposed a potential vulnerability in their attack. With Viktor Gyokeres sidelined by a recent knock, Mikel Arteta is reportedly eyeing a blockbuster January move for Borussia Dortmund’s powerhouse striker Serhou Guirassy to provide much-needed depth and competition up front.
The Gunners have enjoyed a stellar start to the 2025-26 season, but Gyokeres’ injury last weekend has highlighted the lack of reliable options in the No.9 role. The Swedish international, who joined Arsenal in a high-profile summer transfer, has managed a respectable four goals in 10 Premier League appearances so far, but his current goal ratio suggests he could hit over 20 for the campaign if he returns to fitness swiftly.
Arteta remained tight-lipped on Gyokeres’ recovery timeline ahead of the North London derby against Tottenham, but there’s no indication of a long-term absence. In the meantime, players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and even midfielder Mikel Merino have been forced to deputize, underscoring the need for reinforcements.
Enter Serhou Guirassy, the 6ft 2in Guinean striker who has been tearing it up in the Bundesliga. According to reports from Fichajes and other outlets, Arsenal are “seriously considering” activating Guirassy’s attractive release clause, valued at around €50 million (£44m), which is available to a select group of elite clubs including the Premier League leaders. The 29-year-old has notched 11 goals and four assists across 21 appearances in all competitions this season, showcasing the power, aggression, and clinical finishing that could perfectly complement Gyokeres’ style.
Guirassy’s potential arrival is also tied to speculation surrounding Gabriel Jesus’ future at the Emirates. The Brazilian has struggled to recapture his Manchester City form and lacks the physical presence of Gyokeres or Guirassy. Reports suggest Jesus could depart as early as January, creating a void that Arteta is keen to fill with a proven goalscorer who can rotate or step in during injuries. Arsenal have been monitoring Guirassy for some time, and with competition from clubs like Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, the Gunners may need to act fast.
While Arsenal’s defense remains the envy of the league – even without the injured Gabriel – it’s the attacking depth that has occasionally let them down in past seasons. Key creators like Bukayo Saka and Martin Odegaard have carried the load, but injuries to them have exposed frailties. Gyokeres has brought a new dimension since his arrival, but Arteta lacks a like-for-like backup. Havertz prefers playing facing the goal, and Jesus no longer fits the physical profile required for Arteta’s system.
Signing Guirassy would signal Arsenal’s intent to dominate both domestically and in the Champions League. Not every striker would accept a rotational role, but as England’s top club right now, the Gunners are in a prime position to lure a player of Guirassy’s caliber. If this £44m deal materializes, it could be the missing piece in Arteta’s trophy-chasing puzzle.