Arteta warns finding a new striker will be difficult

Mikel Arteta insisted Arsenal want to sign a new striker but acknowledged the difficulty of filling that position ahead of the next transfer window.

Arsenal's last hope of winning a trophy in 2024-25 ended on Wednesday as they were knocked out of the Champions League semi-final by Paris Saint-Germain, meaning they will end a fifth consecutive season without any silverware.

Following the 3-1 aggregate defeat, Arsenal came under criticism for not signing a natural striker when they had the chance in the January transfer window.

The Gunners are currently without Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, who have both endured long spells on the sidelines, with Arteta opting to play Mikel Merino as a false nine in their absence.

Arteta insisted that is the area of his squad he wants to improve, but circumstances did not allow it in January.

"Do I have to make it more clear? In January, it was clear or not?" said Arteta.

"I told you because you were in the room, I think many times, and it was a very clear statement. The statement continues the same.

"I want the best team, the best player. If we have three goalscorers over 25, bring them in, and we're going to be a much better team.

"I think if you score over 90 goals, you have a high, high probability of winning the Premier League.

"It doesn't guarantee you, but you have a high probability if your defensive record is very good as well and very dependable as well against who and in which moment this striker, this winger in this case, has scored the goals and how many points is he contributing with his goals as well."

According to reports, Arsenal are close to signing defensive midfielder Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad when the transfer window opens.

They have also reportedly submitted an initial offer for Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres, who has netted 52 goals in all competitions this season.

RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko and Alexander Isak of Newcastle United are also said to be on Arsenal's shortlist for the upcoming transfer window.

When asked if it was the hardest position to buy, Arteta said: "Probably, because there are not that many that put those numbers.

"It's something that's in the stats, there are not that many in the Premier League.

"We will try to improve, but certainly improve the ones that we have right now and love the ones that we have right now.

"Especially after losing, it's too easy to just go and look elsewhere and not use the moment to judge players, especially.

"But when other players have outperformed other players that we were discussing, I have zero questions in the last 11 months."