Arsenal could yet make a significant move in the January transfer window, with Mikel Arteta admitting late last month that the club are open to strengthening if their injury problems continue. The Gunners have been hit by several absences at a crucial stage of the season, and with the business end of the campaign approaching, Arteta is keen to avoid his squad being stretched too thin.
Despite sitting comfortably at the top of the Premier League table and preparing for a major clash with Liverpool, Arsenal’s recruitment team has remained active behind the scenes. One name, in particular, has emerged as a long-term priority, even if a January deal looks increasingly complicated.
Yan Diomande emerges as a primary Arsenal target.
Arsenal are keeping close tabs on highly rated forward Yan Diomande, who has enjoyed an impressive breakthrough season with RB Leipzig. The 19-year-old, who joined Leipzig from Leganes last summer, has quickly established himself as one of the Bundesliga’s standout young attackers, scoring six goals and providing three assists in 14 appearances this term.
Reports suggest Diomande is expected to leave Leipzig at the end of the season, but any move will come at a premium. A fee in the region of £86 million may be required, with Leipzig under no pressure to sell, given the Ivory Coast international is contracted until 2030. As a result, a January transfer is considered highly unlikely unless an extraordinary offer is made.
Arsenal are not alone in their admiration, with Manchester United and Tottenham also believed to be monitoring Diomande’s situation. His pace, direct running and ability to operate across the front line make him an attractive option for clubs planning for both the present and the future.
Arsenal’s 2025–26 season and why reinforcements matter
Under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have built a commanding position in the 2025–26 title race. The Gunners are six points clear at the summit and have won their last five league matches following a rare defeat to Aston Villa in December. Their consistency has been a defining feature of the campaign.
However, Arteta has repeatedly stressed the importance of squad depth, particularly with Arsenal competing on multiple fronts. Injuries have already tested their resilience, and while the current group has responded impressively, the manager is mindful of the risks of overreliance on a small core of players.
A player like Diomande represents not just immediate quality, but long-term planning. Even if a January move does not materialise, Arsenal’s interest signals their intent to continue building a squad capable of sustaining success well beyond this season.
