Arsenal will not be signing Real Madrid striker Luka Jovic before the end of the January transfer window as originally hoped, according to a report.
The Gunners are chasing a busy end to the window, with two key deals in sight for Mikel Arteta. While the manager wants a new midfielder before the cut-off, he also wants a new forward.
Dusan Vlahovic was the most widely-reported target for the London club. However, the Fiorentina man is edging towards a move across Italy with Juventus.
As such, Real Sociedad’s Isak was next on the list. Although, he reportedly has no intention of leaving his La Liga employers before the summer. He also has a €70million (£58million) release clause.
Real striker Jovic – a Serbia team-mate of Vlahovic’s – is a third player Arsenal have therefore been looking at.
The 24-year-old has had a mixed career in the Spanish capital and went back to former club Eintracht Frankfurt on loan last season. This term, he has yet to start a La Liga game while Karim Benzema has been banging in the goals.
However, Benzema suffered a hamstring injury in Madrid’s last game, a 2-2 draw with Elche on Sunday.
As a result, Marca reports that Los Blancos are now unwilling to let Jovic leave. They were previously open to offers for the player, but he is now of greater importance in the team.
Jovic no longer an Arsenal option
An earlier report from Marca detailed how Madrid hope Benzema will be fully fit for the Champions League last-16 first leg tie against Paris Saint-Germain on February 15.
Benzema will therefore not be out for any significant amount of time. However, Madrid want to keep all their options as they also fight for La Liga and the Copa del Rey.
Nevertheless, Arsenal’s chances of signing a striker before Monday’s cut-off have grown slimmer.
A new addition could become vitally important, as Eddie Nketiah and Alexandre Lacazette are both in the final six months of their contracts.
Meanwhile, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang remains frozen out following a disciplinary breach.
Osimhen an Arsenal transfer alternative
Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is one final target Arsenal have studied over a potential raid.
The Nigeria international has bagged five goals from 13 Serie A appearances this term.
He netted a further 10 last season, his debut campaign after moving from French club Lille.
While Osimhen has a £58million price tag, Newcastle are also reportedly showing interest in him.
