Arsenal’s search for more attacking quality has produced several fresh transfer links this week, with preparations for January already attracting attention.
Reports on Wednesday suggested that the Gunners had asked Can Uzun’s representatives about the Eintracht Frankfurt forward.
The same agency also represents Nicolo Tresoldi, another player being considered as Arsenal assess their options up front.
Uzun would come with a £52 million release clause, and there is also a problem with the timing of any move for Tresoldi.
TEAMtalk reported this week that Club Brugge intend to keep the striker through January, despite interest from Arsenal and several other clubs.
The Belgian side are reportedly aiming for a record sale when they eventually allow him to leave, potentially forcing interested teams to wait until the summer.
Arsenal could have another difficult negotiation on their hands after a new update on Alex Baena.
Arsenal eye Alex Baena January move as Atlético Madrid talks revealed
FootballTransfers journalist Steve Kay reports that the Atlético Madrid attacker is back under consideration for a possible January move.
This is a player Arsenal have admired for some time, with Kay previously reporting their interest in 2024, before Baena left Villarreal for Madrid.
The latest report suggests that interest has survived his change of clubs, with Mikel Arteta still looking for ways to strengthen his attacking options, and the north Londoners have held talks with Atlético ahead of the winter window.
Sporting director Andrea Berta would revisit familiar territory if Arsenal bid, with Kay identifying Baena as a player both he and Arteta would like to sign.
However, he also warns that Atlético would be expected to demand a sizeable fee, making a winter transfer difficult to pull off.
Baena only joined Diego Simeone’s side in July 2025 and signed a contract running until June 2030, leaving Atlético in a strong position if Arsenal decide to test their resolve.
Alex Baena’s 2026 World Cup record | Total |
|---|---|
Appearances | 7 |
Goals | 1 |
Assists | 1 |
Minutes played | 487 |
The 25-year-old developed at Villarreal, making his senior debut in 2020 before later spending a season on loan at Girona.
His Villarreal years also brought a Europa League winners’ medal, while his successful loan spell at Girona ended with promotion to La Liga.
Although naturally right-footed and often used on the left, he has experience across midfield, which will clearly appeal to Arteta.
He helped Spain win the World Cup this summer, adding to the European Championship and Olympic gold he collected in 2024.
Baena’s tournament included the winning goal against Uruguay, a contribution that helped Spain finish top of their group.
Spain’s squad also included Arsenal trio David Raya, Martín Zubimendi and Mikel Merino, meaning Baena would already know several faces if he moved to north London.
Baena’s passing and ability to carry the ball could offer Arteta different combinations in the final third, but the big question is whether Atlético can be persuaded to part with him halfway through the season.
Source: www.footballfancast.com
