Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović as Mikel Arteta evaluates options for strengthening his attack this month.

Trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by six points, Arsenal are exploring ways to bolster several areas of their squad. With Bukayo Saka sidelined by injury, they are assessing winger options, including Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams and Wolves’ Matheus Cunha.

Shift in strategy?TEAMtalk reports that Arsenal may shift focus to securing a new striker. This move could allow Gabriel Jesus to play on the right wing as needed. Journalist Mirko Di Natale claims the Gunners recently made inquiries about Vlahović, who is highly regarded at the Emirates.

Vlahović, whose Juventus contract expires in 2026, has yet to agree to an extension despite the club’s efforts. This has fueled speculation about his potential availability this winter. The 24-year-old Serbian has tallied 12 goals and two assists in 23 appearances across all competitions this season, attracting interest from Arsenal and others.

Arsenal’s long-term admiration for VlahovićArsenal’s interest in Vlahović dates back to September, with the Gunners closely monitoring his progress. While Chelsea have also been linked, their interest reportedly lacks the urgency of Arsenal’s, as they explore Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap as an alternative.

A bid of €50 million (£41.5m/$51.5m) could tempt Juventus to part with Vlahović, but it’s uncertain if Arsenal will make such an offer. Newcastle’s Alexander Isak remains the Gunners’ dream signing, but his £115 million valuation makes a January move unlikely. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško is another option, though he, like Isak, may be easier to acquire in the summer.

Cheaper and short-term alternativesBrighton’s Evan Ferguson has emerged as a potential cost-effective winter signing. Brighton might consider loaning the striker if Danny Welbeck’s injury recovery proceeds well.

Arsenal are evaluating their options carefully, with developments expected soon in their pursuit of a striker to bolster their title challenge.