Four Free-Agent Strikers Arsenal Can Sign After Kai Havertz Injury

Arsenal’s attacking options have suffered a significant blow following Kai Havertz’s hamstring injury during their mid-season training camp in Dubai. Reports indicate that the German midfielder-turned-striker could be sidelined for the remainder of the season, leaving Mikel Arteta scrambling for reinforcements. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus also struggling with injuries, the Gunners are facing an attacking crisis at a crucial juncture in the Premier League title race.

Havertz’s absence could not have come at a worse time for Arsenal. The club is currently engaged in a fierce battle at the top of the table, and with fixtures coming thick and fast, depth in attack is essential. Arsenal’s initial plan was to rely on their existing squad, but given the length of Havertz’s potential absence, they might be forced to dip into the free-agent market for an emergency solution.

The January transfer window has already closed, which limits Arsenal’s options. However, the free-agent market still presents an opportunity for the Gunners to find a short-term solution. While bringing in a free agent mid-season is always a risk, Arsenal’s need for reinforcements could outweigh the concerns over fitness and match readiness.

Here are four strikers Arsenal could consider signing on a free transfer to bolster their attack.

1. Diego Costa – The Experienced Warrior

At 36, Diego Costa may not be the prolific striker he once was, but his experience and aggression could still provide Arsenal with a valuable option. The former Chelsea and Atlético Madrid forward most recently played for Gremio in Brazil, where injuries limited his impact, but he still managed to contribute eight goals and five assists.

Costa’s Premier League experience is an asset, as he already understands the physicality and intensity of English football. While his best days are behind him, his ability to hold up play, bully defenders, and provide a physical presence in the box could make him a viable emergency option.

2. Wissam Ben Yedder – The Clinical Finisher

Wissam Ben Yedder, 34, is another intriguing option. The former Monaco striker left the Ligue 1 side in the summer and has been without a club since. Despite his off-field issues—including a suspended two-year prison sentence for sexual assault, which he is currently appealing—his on-field talent remains undeniable.

Ben Yedder scored 20 goals in 34 appearances for Monaco last season, proving that he still has an eye for goal. His ability to play as a traditional No. 9 or in a deeper role could give Arsenal much-needed tactical flexibility. However, his reported negotiations with Venezia FC in Serie A might make it difficult for Arsenal to swoop in at this stage.

3. Gerard Deulofeu – The Creative Forward

A more unconventional choice would be Gerard Deulofeu. The former Barcelona and Everton forward has been a free agent since leaving Udinese in January. Deulofeu has struggled with injuries in recent years, with his last competitive appearance dating back to January 2023.

Despite his fitness concerns, Deulofeu is a technically gifted player with excellent dribbling and creativity. If Arsenal are looking for a player who can operate as a secondary striker or provide an alternative attacking approach, Deulofeu could be a wildcard option. However, his lack of match fitness is a major concern, and he has previously stated that he aims to return to football in 2025.

4. Maxi Gómez – The Target Man Option

At just 28 years old, Maxi Gómez is the youngest player on this list and arguably the best long-term option. The Uruguayan striker has been a free agent since leaving Trabzonspor in the summer. While his recent loan spell at Cadiz was underwhelming—he failed to score or assist—his overall record of 89 goals in 304 appearances suggests he has the potential to rediscover his form.

Gómez is known for his strength, aerial ability, and hold-up play. His playing style could complement Arsenal’s fluid attacking system, providing Arteta with a more traditional center-forward who can bring others into play. If he can regain his confidence and sharpness, he could be the most viable option for Arsenal’s short-term needs.

Should Arsenal Take the Risk?

Signing a free agent at this stage of the season is never ideal, but Arsenal’s injury crisis might leave them with no choice. The club currently has 22 of its 25 squad slots filled, meaning they have the flexibility to register a new player if needed.

Arteta will need to weigh the risks and benefits carefully. None of these players are guaranteed to hit the ground running, and fitness concerns will always be an issue with free agents. However, with the title race still alive, Arsenal cannot afford to take any chances when it comes to squad depth.

Another consideration is whether Arsenal could promote an academy player instead. Youngster Ethan Nwaneri has been gaining experience with the first team, and Arteta has shown a willingness to trust youth. However, relying on a teenager to step up in a high-pressure title race is a massive gamble.

The Financial Aspect

One of the advantages of signing a free agent is that there would be no transfer fee involved. However, wages and signing-on fees could still pose a financial challenge. Players like Costa and Ben Yedder, despite being without a club, may still demand significant salaries. Arsenal must ensure that any short-term solution does not disrupt their long-term financial planning.

What Next for Arsenal?

With the Premier League title race heating up, Arsenal must act quickly if they decide to bring in a replacement for Havertz. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether they stick with their existing squad or take the plunge into the free-agent market.

Arteta has repeatedly emphasized the importance of squad depth, and with the season reaching its defining moments, the Gunners cannot afford to be short of attacking options. If they hope to keep pace with Liverpool and Manchester City, finding a suitable solution—whether from within the squad or through an external signing—will be paramount.

Ultimately, the decision will come down to whether Arsenal believe any of these free agents can genuinely contribute to their title push. If they do, a short-term deal could be on the cards. If not, they may be forced to rely on their current squad and hope for a swift recovery from their injured stars.