Arsenal Open to Signing Ex-Brazil Forward as Arteta Alludes to Free Agent Option

Arsenal have the opportunity to acquire a former Brazilian striker who is currently a free agent after departing his previous club last summer. Manager Mikel Arteta has hinted at the possibility of bringing in an unattached player to bolster the squad.

At a recent press conference ahead of Arsenal’s match against Leicester City, Arteta did not rule out signing an out-of-contract forward as an emergency measure. The club is facing an injury crisis in attack, with both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus sidelined for the remainder of the Premier League season.

This leaves Arsenal with limited options up front. Raheem Sterling could potentially fill in as a makeshift striker, while promising youngster Ethan Nwaneri may see increased first-team action alongside veterans like Leandro Trossard.

When asked about exploring the free agent market, Arteta stated: “We will examine every possible scenario and make decisions accordingly.”

One potential free agent option is 35-year-old Brazilian Leandro Damiao, who left Coritiba FC last summer. Damiao was previously linked with a move to Tottenham in 2013 under then-manager André Villas-Boas.

Damiao enjoyed his most prolific years at Sport Club Internacional, netting 106 goals in 226 appearances. His career total stands at 219 goals.

While it remains unclear if Arsenal are seriously considering Damiao, Arteta’s comments suggest the club is open to creative solutions to address their striker shortage as they enter a crucial stretch of Premier League fixtures.