Arsenal have been in need of a new striker since last summer, a need that became even more urgent midway through the season following an injury crisis.
The Gunners were hit hard as Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka all suffered injuries around the same time, with both Jesus and Havertz ruled out for the rest of the campaign.
With no natural striker available, Mikel Arteta was forced to deploy Mikel Merino up front. Arsenal tried to sign Ollie Watkins last minute in January, but Aston Villa refused to sell.
The lack of a proper striker did impact their title charge, which saw Liverpool run away with it.
However, the club is expected to address the issue this summer, with several strikers already being linked with a move to the Emirates.
Wayne Rooney could see Arsenal making a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta
Alexander Isak is Arteta’s dream signing while Benjamin Sesko is another linked with a move to Arsenal as a more realistic option.
Another name heavily linked with Arsenal is Viktor Gyokeres. However, Wayne Rooney can see the Gunners moving for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Speaking to the BBC ahead of the FA Cup, Rooney praised the 27-year-old: “I was looking at the summer thinking Arsenal or Man United would try and take because he gets into both of their teams.
“He is a handful. He is big, he is strong, he is quick. He’s a bit awkward and clumsy at times, but he is a handful.
“I’m sure if you ask any defenders he doesn’t give them any easy games. He occupies defenders and makes it really difficult for them, which allows other players to come into the game. And he scores goals.
“He has been one of the best forwards in the Premier League over the last couple of years. I am surprised, with no disrespect to Palace, that other big teams have not come and signed him.”
Manchester United are interested in Jean-Philippe Mateta
It’s not just Arsenal that Rooney has tipped to sign the £40m rated Mateta, he also believes the Frenchman would be a great fit at Manchester United.
The Red Devils have been linked with the attacker, with reports also claiming that Mateta himself is keen on joining Manchester United.
While players like Alexander Isak, Bryan Mbeumo, and Chris Wood have received widespread praise for their performances this season, Mateta’s numbers have gone under the radar.
He has scored 17 goals and provided four assists across all competitions this season.
Adding to his output from last season, where he scored 19 goals and provided six assists, Mateta now boasts a total of 46 goals and 11 assists in 149 appearances for Palace.
His consistent performances in the Premier League show why the likes of Rooney have recognised him as a force, with United and Arsenal backed to sign him.
