Robert Pires believes Arsenal needs a top-class striker to compete for the Premier League title. The former Arsenal winger, who won two league titles and was part of the legendary Invincibles squad in 2003-04, emphasized that the team lacks a clinical finisher. Arsenal has not won the league since that historic season and has finished as runners-up to Manchester City in the past two campaigns. Currently, they trail Liverpool by six points, with Liverpool having a game in hand. While Arsenal boasts the best defense in the league, their attack has been underwhelming, with Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard struggling to score consistently.
The need for attacking reinforcements has become even more urgent with Bukayo Saka’s injury. Arsenal was linked with several strikers in January, reportedly receiving offers for three forwards: Moise Kean (16 goals in 26 games), Mateo Retegui (19 goals in 29 games), and Manfred Ugalde (16 goals in 22 games). Jhon Duran was also a potential target, though he is expected to join Al-Nassr, while RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko was another option, though not available until the summer.
Pires has urged Arsenal to sign Victor Osimhen, who is currently on loan at Galatasaray and has netted 16 goals in 20 matches. Considered one of Europe’s top strikers, Osimhen has earned praise from Jose Mourinho, who labeled him a world-class forward. With multiple clubs interested in signing him, Arsenal would need to act fast to secure his services.
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Pires stressed that Arsenal must bring in an elite striker to compete with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City, both of whom have top goal-scorers. Reflecting on his time at the club, Pires recalled playing alongside legendary forwards such as Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, and Nwankwo Kanu, who made scoring look effortless. While football has evolved, he believes Arsenal still requires a lethal finisher to maximize their attacking potential.
Pires sees Osimhen as the perfect fit for Arsenal, complementing the likes of Martinelli, Ødegaard, Havertz, and Saka. However, he acknowledged that the decision ultimately rests with the club’s management. While Arsenal has other targets, including Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres, Osimhen stands out as a proven goal-scorer who delivers in big matches.
Manchester United is also in the market for a striker and could rival Arsenal for Osimhen’s signature. Rio Ferdinand has pointed out United’s need for a reliable goal-scorer, as Rasmus Højlund has struggled for consistency. With multiple clubs interested, Arsenal must move quickly before the transfer window closes.
Osimhen possesses the qualities needed to thrive in the Premier League—he is strong, quick, and a clinical finisher. Having already proven himself in Serie A and now in Turkey, he has the experience to succeed in England. Arsenal has been creating chances but struggling with finishing, and Osimhen could be the solution to that problem.
Under Mikel Arteta, several players, including Saka, Martinelli, and Ødegaard, have flourished. Pires believes Osimhen could further develop under Arteta’s guidance and elevate Arsenal’s attack. However, the club must act fast, as other teams are circling.
Arsenal fans are eager for a top-class striker, knowing that Osimhen could be the missing piece in their title challenge. The coming days will be crucial as Arsenal decides whether to make a move. If they secure a top forward, their chances of winning the league will significantly improve.