Arsenal transfer window latest: Nypan, David, Cunha, Zinchenko and Heaven | OneFootball

Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta are increasingly confident they will strengthen their attacking options before the end of the transfer window.

There was an increased urgency in the club’s New Year requirements when Bukayo Saka was ruled out for most of the remainder of the season after undergoing hamstring surgery in December. A ligament injury sustained by fellow forward Gabriel Jesus since then has forced Arsenal to double down on their search for attacking reinforcements.

Lille forward Jonathan David is a name that will not go away although there has been no confirmation from either club that a deal is imminent. David is out of contract at the end of the season, but such is  Arsenal’s need they may yet offer a sum to prise him away.

Their cause is not aided by the French side’s continued involvement in the expanded Champions League format this season. They are certain to be involved beyond the initial league stage.

We do know Arsenal have a firm interest in the latest Norwegian wonderkid Sverre Nypan. The Rosenborg midfielder, 18, had been dubbed the new Martin Odegaard. There is interest from both Manchester clubs as well as Arsenal and many others. Could it be the influence of Odegaard himself play a role in luring the teenager to north London?

Wolves target Matheus Cunha, however, is viewed as a non-starter this month as his transfer fee is deemed prohibitive. Unsettled Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford has been touted as a loan option, but arsenal have already used up their two-player Premier League quota in Bournemouth keeper Neto and Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling.

The lack of a tangible name is frustrating to Arsenal supporters, of course, but it is increasingly likely they will not have to wait long to see a new face in their red shirt

What is easier to predict with more confidence is the departure of defenders Oleksander Zinchenko and Ayden Heaven.

Versatile Ukraine international Zinchenko is a target for Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund and talks are thought to be at an advanced stage.

Heaven, a highly regarded teenage product of the club’s Hale End Academy, has refused to sign a new contract and is wanted by Manchester United, who will have to pay a compensation fee.