Arsenal are reportedly preparing for a significant move in January as Mikel Arteta seeks to strengthen his squad after recent disappointing results. The Gunners faced a tough loss to Newcastle in the Premier League on Saturday and were defeated by Inter Milan in the Champions League midweek. With a vital match against Chelsea approaching and their last league win on October 5, Arsenal is now trailing leaders Liverpool by seven points.
Amid concerns about their attacking options, there is growing speculation that Arsenal may pursue Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane to enhance their offensive capabilities.
Sane’s Potential Return to England
Since leaving Manchester City in 2020, Sane has played a key role in Bayern Munich’s success, helping the club win three Bundesliga titles, the European Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. However, under the new manager Vincent Kompany, the German international has reportedly fallen out of favor following the arrival of Michael Olise.
Sky Germany reports that the 28-year-old winger is considering a return to the Premier League, with Arsenal and Manchester United seen as the top contenders for his signature. During his previous time in England, Sane won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and two League Cups with Manchester City.
His past relationship with Arteta, who was Guardiola’s assistant at City, could be key in Arsenal’s pursuit. Sane has praised Arteta’s impact, crediting their individual training sessions for enhancing his performance.
Sane’s Profile and Market Value
At City, Sane scored 35 goals in 139 appearances, and he has since netted 51 goals in 185 matches for Bayern. Even though his contract expires next summer, Bayern is said to value him at £50 million. However, his rumored £320,000-a-week wages could pose a challenge for Arsenal. To make the move possible, the Gunners may need to offload one of their underperforming forwards.
Plans for January
Arteta is likely to finalize his strategy for the upcoming transfer window, particularly after the departure of sporting director Edu. Edu, known for securing key signings such as Declan Rice and William Saliba, recently joined Evangelos Marinakis’s group of teams.
Arsenal faces intense competition from Manchester United for Sane, and will need to act swiftly in January to avoid missing out. Adding Sane could provide the attacking boost Arsenal needs to strengthen their title push and reduce the gap to league leaders Liverpool.
