LONDON, ENGLAND — Arsenal could turn to the free-agent market if injuries to Kai Havertz and Christos Tzolis leave Mikel Arteta short of attacking options during the season.
According to a report cited by Sports Mole on Monday, October 5, 2026, Havertz and Tzolis are facing uncertain periods on the sidelines after suffering injury problems while on international duty.
Havertz returned from Germany duty with a thigh problem, while Tzolis was forced off early during Greece’s Nations League meeting with the Netherlands. Neither player reportedly has a confirmed return date.
Arsenal Face Attacking Concerns
The injuries could expose a weakness in Arsenal’s attacking depth after the club allowed Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli to leave during the summer without bringing in direct replacements.
Arsenal previously considered several prominent attacking targets, including Morgan Rogers, Julian Alvarez and Vinicius Junior, but did not complete deals for any of them.
While the squad still possesses attacking options, further injuries could leave Arteta needing additional cover.
The free-agent market could provide a temporary solution without requiring Arsenal to pay a significant transfer fee for an emergency signing.
Jadon Sancho
Jadon Sancho could offer Arsenal experience and versatility across the frontline.
The former Borussia Dortmund winger became one of Europe’s most highly rated young attackers before securing a reported £73 million move to Manchester United.
Sancho has extensive Premier League experience and can operate on either flank as well as in other attacking positions.
A short-term move to Arsenal could potentially give the 25-year-old an opportunity to rebuild his confidence and revive his career under Arteta.
However, financial demands and his recent form could determine whether such a move is realistic.
Anthony Martial
Anthony Martial represents another experienced option.
The French forward made an immediate impression in England after joining Manchester United, scoring a memorable debut goal against Liverpool.
Martial subsequently struggled with injuries and consistency, although he remained capable of producing moments of individual quality.
He scored 90 goals in 317 appearances during his nine-season spell at Manchester United before later playing for AEK Athens and Monterrey.
At 30, Martial could view a short-term Premier League opportunity as a chance to revive his career at the highest level.
Wilfried Zaha
Wilfried Zaha could also attract attention if Arsenal decide they need another experienced winger.
The 33-year-old is no longer the explosive attacker who regularly troubled Premier League defenders during his Crystal Palace career, but his experience and ability to create opportunities could still make him useful as temporary cover.
Zaha’s familiarity with English football could also reduce the adjustment period compared with an overseas signing.
Other Options Remain
Arsenal could consider other experienced free agents, including Raheem Sterling, Dele Alli and Philippe Coutinho.
However, each player would present questions surrounding recent form, consistency or career trajectory.
Former Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy would also have been an option, but he has reportedly joined Burnley until the end of the season.
Karim Benzema could provide considerable experience, although his age would make such a move more of a short-term solution than a long-term investment.
Arteta Must Weigh His Options
Arsenal do not necessarily need to sign a free agent simply because Havertz and Tzolis are injured.
Much will depend on the severity of their respective problems and how long they are expected to remain unavailable.
However, if both attackers face extended absences, Arteta could consider the free-agent market for additional depth.
A temporary signing could help Arsenal navigate a demanding campaign involving multiple competitions while reducing pressure on the club’s remaining attacking players.
For now, the priority will be establishing the extent of Havertz and Tzolis’ injuries before Arsenal decide whether emergency reinforcement is necessary.
