Arsenal transfer news: Bukayo Saka replacement identified as Barcelona target Gunners star

Arsenal look set to do some business in the January transfer window after seeing a lack of quality in a handful of areas.

The injury to Bukayo Saka – who will be out until March with a torn hamstring – has raised alarm bells at the Emirates, with Mikel Arteta still missing a quality and reliable centre-forward.

There are also concerns about Arsenal's backline following the injuries to Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu, and fans will be clamoring for more additions next month to help them regain Liverpool's nine-point lead at the top of the table.

Here, Mirror Football takes a look at Arsenal's biggest transfer news.

Kudus would be a “perfect” saka replacement

Arsenal have long been linked with a move for West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus and those rumors are only set to intensify after the team lost Saka to a long-term injury.

The Gunners have been long-time admirers of the Ghana international and were last month seeking a £90million move for the 24-year-old – amid fears Leandro Trossard could join a Saudi Pro League club.

Now former Gunner Adrian Clarke has tipped his old side to opt for the player in January, calling him a “perfect” replacement for Saka.

Kudus has three goals in the Premier League and one assist for the Hammers, although his progress at the London Stadium has been hampered as the team suffers a slump under boss Julen Lopetegui.

Speaking to talkSport, Clarke said: “Mohammed Kudus is a player Arsenal have been interested in for a long time.

“He is a perfect replacement for Bukayo Saka, who can also work up front. Great traveler with the ball at his feet. Can Arsenal test West Ham United's resolve with an offer this month?”

Barcelona wants Partey

Arsenal have a handful of players at risk of leaving on a free transfer next summer, and one of them is midfielder Thomas Partey.

The 31-year-old joined the Emirates in 2020 for around £45 million after emerging as one of the most talented midfielders in the world at Atletico Madrid. He subsequently played 140 games for the club.

However, so far the Arsenal chief has not been offered a new contract and Barcelona are now reportedly monitoring his situation, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The report adds that Hansi Flick's squad are pursuing a number of potential options, including Jonathan Tah and Joanthan David.

However, it says Partey is a player they are looking at with particular attention as a possible replacement for Frenkie de Jong – should the Dutchman leave.

Barcelona see Partey as a physically imposing and versatile option, while club chief Deco is a big fan. The fact that he was able to arrive for free is another factor given Barcelona's notable financial problems.

Cunha idolized Podolski

Arsenal are still tracking Wolves striker Matheus Cunha and the player's previous comments about his football inspiration could encourage fans hoping the move will happen.

Cunha has been one of the most impressive strikers in the Premier League this season, having scored ten goals so far. With Arsenal needing more firepower in January, Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen to bring him to the Emirates.

The Brazilian previously spoke highly of a former Arsenal star he admired growing up and sang the praises of Lukas Podolski, who he may hope to emulate in north London.

In 2019, when he was a player for RB Leipzig, he said: “As far as Bundesliga players are concerned, I like Podolski a lot,” he said. “He destroyed the Brazilian national team when he went there and became world champion, and I cried a lot then.

“But he seems to have a lot of affection from the Brazilians to this day. He always plays and jokes with Flamengo. I believe Podolski is a German player, who has a great personality both on and off the field.”

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