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.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta when quizzed on Arsenals striker search: Have I ever said no to a striker? We lost two very important players in Saka and Jesus. We lack goals and options in the front, its clear.