As the January transfer window approaches, Arsenal fans are abuzz with speculation about how the team can address its attacking deficiencies. While recent signings have solidified the squad in other areas, questions remain about whether the Gunners have the firepower to challenge for top honors. Amidst this backdrop, the emergence of young talents like Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly offers a glimmer of hope, showcasing the club’s ability to nurture future stars. Here's a closer look at Arsenal's potential moves and the promise of their rising talents.

Arsenal Will Be Looking To Strengthen The Attacking Areas

One of the most pressing topics among Arsenal supporters is the team’s lack of cutting-edge attacking additions in recent seasons. While defensive and midfield reinforcements like Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori, Declan Rice, David Raya, and Mikel Merino have made Arsenal more resilient, the attacking signings of Leandro Trossard, Raheem Sterling, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus have yet to propel them to the next level.

Former Arsenal player Alan Smith believes the club will address these shortcomings:“I am sure they would want to buy a center forward. Calafiori came in, and the left-back was a problem. He has done well, but he has picked up some injuries. They will be looking to make things better in the top half of the pitch.”

“I am sure they would want to buy a centre forward. Calafiori came in, and the left back was a problem. He has done well but he has picked up some injuries.”

“They will be looking to make things better in the top half of the pitch.”

Nwaneri Is A Game Changer

One of the most exciting prospects in Arsenal’s attacking setup is 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri. The young star has already displayed a rare combination of ball-carrying ability, dribbling skills, and a fearless approach to taking on defenders—traits that are hard to find in any player, let alone someone so young.

Nwaneri’s breakthrough, however, was interrupted by injury, leaving fans and pundits eager for his return. Smith expressed his admiration for the teenager’s flair and his hopes for a swift recovery:

“It’s a shame because, with Saka out, he started against Brighton and scored that first-half goal. Then he picked up the injury. I hope it’s not too serious.

“He’s got so much flair and ability to change a game. Arteta has been cautious with him, so it’s a pity he picked up the knock because he’d be playing. He can add to the team in a creative sense, so hopefully, he’ll be back soon.”

Is Lewis-Skelly’s Future in Midfield?

Another academy graduate making waves is Myles Lewis-Skelly, who has performed admirably as a left-back despite his natural position being in midfield. His adaptability at such a young age speaks volumes about his talent, but the question remains: where will his long-term future lie?

“Lewis-Skelly can certainly play the left-back position, and he is playing in the Premier League now against top opponents at a very young age in a position he hasn’t played too much,” Smith noted.

“That tells us something about his abilities. Sometimes players get converted into new positions, but it would be nice to see him in the midfield where he probably feels more confident. It’s great to see a young, talented player like Myles coming through the academy.”

Should Arsenal be looking to bring in Nico Williams?

A player that Arsenal have continually found themselves linked with is EURO 2024 start Nico Williams. Barcelona and Liverpool keen are also said to be eyeing a move for the attacking winger who has a release clause in the region of €60m (£50.4m) and with Bukayo Saka out injured could he be the ideal player to bring in?

"The club are missing Saka, the team's missing Saka aren't they? Because he's such an integral part of what they do, going forward and somebody that's always going to pop up and get a goal."

"Nico Williams can play on that side but when Saka's back, it's such a difficult conundrum really when you try to find an understudy for an automatic starter in Saka.”

Williams made a name for himself this summer at the Euro Championships, helping to guide Spain to glory. Since then he has been hot property and the prospect of Saka on one side and Williams on another would be mouthwatering. Yet, Smith remains dubious on a move for Williams due to the fact he can also play on the right hand side.

“Nico Williams wouldn't be wanting to come to a club and then find himself sitting on the bench. He's obviously a very good young player, so again, whether Arsenal will pursue something like that, I'm not sure.”

“They've got to tread a fine line in the transfer market at the moment and I'm sure they're thinking about it all the time, especially at this moment in the season when things aren't great."

"I would be a little surprised if Nico Williams came, I've gotta say. Whether he can play in a central position or on the wings, I don't know but certainly when Saka's fit, he's not going to get in on the right."

Read the first part of our interview here where Alan Smith names his number one transfer target for Arsenal