Mikel Arteta chose not to pursue a potential deal for Alvaro Morata with his lack of intensity and and inability to press effectively cited as concerns.
The Arsenal boss was desperate to add more firepower to his squad during the January transfer window, but ultimately failed to do so. A season-ending injury to Gabriel Jesus at the start of the month placed further pressure on the Gunners' resources.
They scoured the market amid calls for them to bolster their forward line with Kai Havertz largely operating as a false 9, but the Gunners couldn't land any new signings. Morata emerged as a possible arrival, with the Spaniard enduring a difficult time at Chelsea previously.
When contemplating the deal Arteta and his staff considered what he would struggle with. Morata can’t press in the same way that Havertz can with intensity key to Arteta's game plan. This is seen as a key strength of the German's - even if he does cop criticism for his finishing.
Those at the Emirates remained discipline despite the potential players on offer. They believe the right business in the summer could set them up for half a decade. The Independent reports that Arteta didn't simply want to bring in “a body” as he remained loyal to their long-term business plans.
Despite being linked with Alexander Isak, who Newcastle are demanding huge money for, it now seems as if Benjamin Sesko is the likeliest forward they will land. The RB Leipzig frontman has enjoyed a rapid rise and has a number of Premier League clubs keeping tabs on him.
Arteta has made it clear that whatever striker he signs must be comfortable operating in tight areas and with a deep defensive line. He told Sky Sports on his wish list: "A nine that can produce goals, but in the manner that we face a lot. for example a lot of low blocks, lots of density in the box and in the manner we play. If he's a great guy - top. If he's very much available - great. If he can produce magic moments - even better. If his work rate is top - let's bring him in."
Arteta confessed he was disappointed that Arsenal failed to make any signings over the past month, but the Spanish coach was pleased the hierarchy showed some discipline when it came to their recruitment.
He said: "We had a clear intention which is always when a window opens to explore the opportunities to improve our squad with players that can make an impact. With players injured, we've been impacted and we haven't achieved it. We are disappointed in that sense but as well we are very aware that we only want to bring certain kinds of players and we have to be very disciplined with that as well."