The seconds tick away for Arsenal to secure the striker reinforcement they so desperately need to acquire before the close of the January transfer window.
With every day, fewer doors remain open, but Arsenal will need to rely on their contacts and allies on the continent if they want to try and find the best option. It is clear that the amount of business done by the Gunners with different sides shows how strong their connections are.
However, technical director Edu has shown ruthlessness in the market and has not been afraid to ruffle some feathers if it benefits his club. Activating the release clause of Thomas Partey on the final day of the 2020 summer window came as an unwelcome surprise to Atletico Madrid.