Arsenal transfer news: Gunners to bid for Vlahovic as Arteta confirms plans

Arsenal will be looking forward to the January transfer window after their frustrating 0-0 draw at home to Everton on Saturday, with the squad lacking in a number of areas.

That stalemate only served to show how desperately the Gunners need a reliable forward who can provide a steady supply of goals to boost their title hopes after failing to bring in a No 9 in the summer.

Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz are currently sharing the goal-scoring burden with five goals each in all competitions but neither are traditional forwards and it's clear the team require more firepower.

With just two weeks until the January window swings open, Mirror Football takes a look at the latest Arsenal transfer news.

Arsenal set to make move for Vlahovic

If Arsenal are to bring a forward to the Emirates in January, Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic might not be a bad option.

There was a time when Vlahovic was one of the most feared strikers in football and the Serbian has been building up some excellent form again in recent years since his move to Juventus in 2021.

Now the Gunners are ready to make a big move for Vlahovic in January and test Juventus' resolve, according to a report from CaughtOffside.

The report claims Mikel Arteta sees Vlahovic, who was linked to Arsenal before he joined Juventus, as the perfect striker for his system to help the team finish off their chances.

This season, Vlahovic has 11 goals in all competitions from 19 appearances, with seven in Serie A. Last season he had one of his best campaigns in years as he scored 18 times.

Arteta comments on transfer business

The Spaniard gave hope to Arsenal fans hoping to see some deals done in January as he spoke out on potential business before the Everton clash.

He admitted he didn't expect January to be an incredibly busy time but opened the door to the possibility of signings as he teased "some surprises".

"I never expect January to be super busy but we have to wait and see where we are," the head coach said.

"Some surprises can come. We are prepared for that. Some opportunities too. We have to see. Hopefully the availability of the squad will be better in a few weeks. We have to wait and see."

Arsenal interested in Barcelona's Raphinha

Barcelona forward Raphinha is enjoying an excellent season in LaLiga this season and it turns out his performances have not gone unnoticed.

The 28-year-old has 17 goals in all competitions and now Arsenal are eager to make a move for him in January after registering their interest in the Brazilian, according to TBR Football, via Football Espana.

The report notes Barcelona's notable financial issues, with Raphinha an obvious candidate that could help cut their wage bill after previous speculation he could depart.

It says they had previously been open to selling him but now see him as "untouchable" due to his incredible form - so Arsenal may have their work cut out if they do wish to make an approach.