Arsenal's goalscoring problems are getting worse by the week.
Everyone watching sees that it's a problem, but now it's leading to them not competing anymore. Arsenal dominated for most of their FA Cup third round tie with Manchester United, but were ultimately undone on penalties as another trophy went begging.
Mikel Arteta greeted his players after the match and admitted he could not explain how they lost the match. The lack of a number 9 is probably the most obvious answer, but it is an issue that the Gunners have failed to address despite having several chances.
Kai Havertz has predominantly led their line. Gabriel Jesus, now injured, cannot be relied on to score 20 goals every season. Furthermore, there is a lack of depth and reinforcements are needed, but Arteta gave few guarantees.
He said: “New striker? We missed different ways and different players. I understand guys. I couldn't love my players more. I concentrate very much on the ones I have.”
January can be a difficult time to do good business. Clubs often jack up prices and the chances of them signing a proven performer like Newcastle's Alexander Isak in the new year are virtually nil. So who can Arsenal really look to to solve their problems in front of goal? Mirror Football takes a look at the men who could be available if the North Londoners come knocking.
Liam Delap
The Ipswich striker has been named by Gary Lineker after his impressive performances with the Tractor Boys. Delap was unproven in the top flight and opportunities did not come to him at Manchester City. However, now he shows that he has all the qualities to become a success. A typical number 9: he is strong, powerful and direct. He has largely lived off scraps at Ipswich and could score even more if he gets the service Arsenal provide.
John Duran
Throughout January he was linked with a move away from Aston Villa despite his goalscoring performance this season. He now starts ahead of Ollie Watkins, but the Midlands team are often open to offers, especially if it helps them toe the line with PSR. Duran could earn them a big profit and they have Watkins on their books, which could make Duran's loss a little easier to stomach if Arsenal come calling.
Kyogo Furuhashi
Going north of the border is always a big risk. For example, Odsonne Edouard did not repeat his Celtic form at Crystal Palace, but Kyogo has been the main man in Glasgow for years and often appears in Old Firm matches. He scored 85 times in less than four years at Parkhead and while he wouldn't come cheap, clubs may not have to spend a lot of money to land the Japanese star.
Bryan Mbeumo
Brentford have done well to keep their attacker for so long. The Bees have often relinquished their top assets when the money was right, and after Arsenal missed out on Ivan Toney, a move for one of his former colleagues could improve their goal situation. Mbeumo is already in double figures and has scored more goals than any Arsenal striker in the Premier League this season.
Evan Ferguson
It would be a big gamble – and when have Arsenal ever gone to Brighton to borrow a striker? Well, the Seagulls are open for business with Ferguson not currently part of the manager's plans and the Gunners need to get creative. Ferguson is tipped for a big future so Brighton won't let him go permanently, but he has previously been a big hit in the Premier League. The goals have dried up, but with some consistent serving and regular minutes he could easily click back into gear.