Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has reportedly identified a transfer target following his team’s defeat to Newcastle United.
The Gunners hosted Eddie Howe’s side at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final. Newcastle showcased their quality, securing a 2-0 victory with goals from Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.
Without star player Bukayo Saka and backup Ethan Nwaneri, Arsenal struggled to dominate as they have in recent months. Kai Havertz had the best chance to score but missed a close-range header.
Less than a day after the loss, reports suggest Arsenal have set their sights on a potential summer signing. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo is on Arsenal’s shortlist. Plettenberg shared:
“Bryan #Mbeumo is on #Arsenal’s shortlist for a possible summer transfer. The Gunners are looking to bolster their wing options. Brentford’s star player, who is under contract until 2026, has scored 13 goals and provided 3 assists in the Premier League this season.”
So far in the 2024/25 campaign, the 25-year-old Mbeumo has recorded 13 goals and four assists in 23 appearances across all competitions for Brentford. Other clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United, have also been linked to the winger.
Reflecting on the Newcastle defeat, Arteta said:
“It’s the result. If you look at what both teams produced and the game’s domination, it doesn’t reflect the story of the match. They were incredibly efficient with their chances, and we weren’t. At this level, in these scenarios, you need to impose yourself and win.”
He added:
“It’s just halftime, and based on how the team played and handled many situations against a strong opponent, I have full belief we can go there and turn it around.”
Arsenal will return to action this weekend in the FA Cup against Manchester United.
Leave a Reply