Arsenal’s January transfer window continues to take shape, with fresh updates emerging on potential attacking targets and outgoing loan moves.
The Gunners are assessing long-term attacking reinforcements while also finalising plans for one of their brightest young prospects.
Arsenal renew interest in Julian Alvarez
Arsenal reportedly weighed up a move for Julian Alvarez last summer and could reignite their interest ahead of the next transfer window. The Argentine forward, currently at Atletico Madrid, was on Arsenal’s radar as part of Mikel Arteta’s search for a mobile, high-pressing striker to complement his attacking system.
Journalist David Ornstein revealed that Alvarez’s name was discussed internally, with Arsenal viewing him as an ideal fit stylistically. Although no deal materialised, the Gunners are understood to be open to revisiting that profile if they make changes in the attacking department this year.
Alvarez’s versatility, capable of operating both centrally and in wider roles, continues to appeal to the club’s recruitment team.
Ethan Nwaneri’s Marseille loan praised
Ethan Nwaneri looks set to complete his temporary move to Ligue 1 side Marseille, with the 18-year-old already pictured in France holding a club scarf ahead of the official announcement. The move marks a shift in strategy for Arsenal, who had initially planned to keep Nwaneri as part of the first-team rotation this season.
Steven Gerrard praised Mikel Arteta for what he described as a “clever” decision, believing that a spell under Roberto De Zerbi could accelerate Nwaneri’s development. The England youth international has shown flashes of his talent in domestic cup fixtures and remains a long-term project for Arsenal, but this loan is seen as a key step in his growth and exposure to senior football.
Arsenal join race for Brazilian prodigy Rafael Belinho
Elsewhere, Arsenal are reportedly one of several European clubs monitoring Rafael Belinho, the 17-year-old Brazilian midfielder currently playing for NK Kustosija. Belinho, who left Dinamo Zagreb earlier this season, has attracted interest from Manchester United, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund.
The Gunners’ recruitment department has been actively scouting emerging South American talent, and Belinho fits their recent trend of pursuing technically gifted, high-upside midfielders. While no formal bid has been made, Arsenal are understood to be gathering data and maintaining contact with his representatives as part of their long-term youth strategy.
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