Arsenal explores January window options, targeting West Ham's Mohammed Kudus to strengthen their squad amidst Saudi interest in Leandro Trossard. A potential reallocation of funds could bolster Arteta's campaign for Premier League success.
As Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal navigate a challenging Premier League season, the club is setting its sights on the January transfer window for potential reinforcements. Among their primary targets is West Ham's Mohammed Kudus, an impressive winger who could offer Arsenal a boost in their quest for a title. Meanwhile, Leandro Trossard has reportedly garnered interest from Saudi club Al-Ittihad, which failed to secure the 29-year-old winger during the last window but now seems prepared to return with a £40 million offer.
Arsenal’s interest in Kudus, 24, is not new as the club considered signing the Ghanaian international before his transfer from Ajax to West Ham for £40 million last year. But with Saudi Pro League interest in Trossard and a potential offer on the table, Arsenal is once again eyeing Kudus as a valuable addition to Arteta’s squad. Despite recent controversy, Kudus has shown his attacking prowess since joining West Ham. With 16 goals and seven assists across 55 appearances, his impact at the London Stadium is clear.
However, his latest red card against Tottenham, where he clashed with several Spurs players in a heated moment, has brought additional scrutiny, as he awaits possible further disciplinary measures from the FA. While West Ham managed to secure a win against Manchester United in Kudus's absence, their subsequent 3-0 loss to Nottingham Forest showed just how crucial the Ghanaian can be in big matches. His skill and pace on the ball could be assets to Arsenal, especially as they look for versatile options who can fill multiple attacking roles.
On the other side, Trossard’s future at Arsenal remains uncertain. The Belgian international, who joined from Brighton in January 2023, has contributed significantly, scoring 20 goals across 80 appearances. With just 18 months left on his contract, Al-Ittihad’s renewed interest places Arsenal in a position to weigh Trossard’s value and possibly fund a move for Kudus with the incoming transfer fee. Notably, Premier League title contenders Liverpool and Manchester City are also rumored to have their eyes on Kudus, which could spur Arsenal to act swiftly.
A potential £90 million deal would mark another significant investment for Arsenal under Arteta’s leadership. The club’s willingness to spend evidenced by summer signings like Declan Rice and Kai Havertz, underscores their ambition to assemble a squad capable of challenging at the top. Adding Kudus would not only deepen their roster but also signal their intent to compete with the best. With the January window approaching, Arsenal’s decisions regarding Trossard and Kudus may shape the second half of their campaign. Whether or not the Gunners finalize a deal, it’s clear that Arteta’s Arsenal will continue to look for opportunities to strengthen their title push.
