Arsenal face a major selection headache as they approach the final stretch of the Premier League season without a recognized striker.
Kai Havertz has suffered a serious hamstring injury, potentially ruling him out for the remainder of the campaign. This comes after Gabriel Jesus was sidelined with an ACL injury in January, leaving Mikel Arteta with limited attacking options.
With Bukayo Saka still recovering from a hamstring issue and Gabriel Martinelli also facing a spell on the sidelines, Arsenal’s only fit forwards are Ethan Nwaneri, Leandro Trossard, and Raheem Sterling. Despite efforts to sign a striker in January, the Gunners failed to get deals over the line for Alexander Isak, Benjamin Sesko, or Ollie Watkins.
Now, with the transfer window closed until summer, Arsenal may be forced to explore the free-agent market to add much-needed depth to their attack.
While the available options may not be in their prime, they could provide valuable experience and short-term solutions.
Here are four veteran forwards who could help Arteta’s side navigate their injury crisis.
1. Maxi Gómez (Age: 28)
The youngest of the free-agent options, Maxi Gómez has been without a club since leaving Trabzonspor in the summer.
The Uruguayan striker previously enjoyed prolific spells with Celta Vigo and Valencia, scoring 30 league goals across two seasons at the former.
Although his recent form has dipped, Gómez’s physical presence and experience in top European leagues could make him a viable option for Arsenal.
Also Check: Arsenal Striker Kai Havertz Ruled Out for the Season with Hamstring Injury
2. Diego Costa (Age: 35)
A familiar name to Premier League fans, Diego Costa was once a dominant force at Chelsea, scoring 59 goals in 120 appearances and winning two league titles.
Though past his prime, Costa remains a tough, physical forward who could provide Arsenal with a short-term fix. Most recently, he played for Brazilian club Grêmio, scoring eight goals in 26 games.
His last Premier League stint with Wolves in 2022 was underwhelming, but his experience could still be valuable in a squad lacking natural strikers.
3. Wissam Ben Yedder (Age: 34)
Among the most prolific available options, Wissam Ben Yedder netted 20 goals for Monaco last season before becoming a free agent.
The Frenchman has an impressive record, with 282 career goals, including 118 in 201 games for Monaco. Although linked with a move to Serie A, he remains unsigned.
If Arsenal are looking for a proven finisher, Ben Yedder could be their best bet.
4. André-Pierre Gignac (Age: 38)
A left-field option, but one that could intrigue Arsenal fans, André-Pierre Gignac has been a goal-scoring machine in Liga MX with Tigres.
Despite his age, the French forward remains a clinical finisher and a strong presence in the box. His European experience with Marseille and Toulouse, combined with his leadership qualities, could make him a useful short-term addition.
Will Arsenal Turn to the Free Agent Market?
Mikel Arteta has been reluctant to make short-term signings, preferring long-term solutions. However, with Arsenal still in the title race and competing in Europe, the need for reinforcements is pressing.
If the injury crisis deepens, a free-agent striker might just be the temporary solution Arsenal need to keep their season on track.
