Arsenal's defeat to Brighton has reignited discussions about the squad's depth. Following the loss, the reigning Premier League champions find themselves three points adrift of Manchester City, prompting the need to reassess their options during the international break.
The pressing concerns lie in the centre-forward position and on the left flank. Kai Havertz has started every Premier League match as the central striker, but Victor Dykes has yet to secure a consistent role in the starting lineup.
Compounding the issue on the left side is the recent departure of Leandro Trossard and the injury to Gabriel Martinelli, leaving Christos Tsolis to bear the brunt of the responsibilities.
With the transfer window closed and no new signings from other clubs allowed until January, Arsenal could turn to the free agent market. Here are several notable players that could be potential targets.
Karim Benzema
Karim Benzema tops the list as the most high-profile option available.
The French forward has lifted the Champions League trophy five times while at Real Madrid, with his success in the tournament in 2022 being a pivotal factor in his Ballon d'Or win.
Having spent the last three years in Saudi Arabia, the 38-year-old striker is now a free agent after mutually parting ways with Al-Hilal. The key question is whether he can still cope with the pace of the Premier League at this stage of his career.
Mauro Icardi
Mauro Icardi is significantly younger than Benzema at 33.
Having played for Inter, PSG, and Galatasaray, Icardi also finds himself without a contract after leaving Turkey.
He has been linked with a move to Tottenham, but his off-field controversies may give potential suitors pause for thought.
Anthony Martial
Anthony Martial is well-acquainted with English football, boasting over 200 Premier League appearances for Manchester United.
However, following his exit from Old Trafford, the French striker's career has waned. His most recent club was Monterrey in Mexico, after which he has also become a free agent.
Martial continues to feature in transfer speculation involving various European clubs, yet a switch to Arsenal would represent a different level of competition for him.
Wilfried Zaha
Wilfried Zaha has previously been linked with a potential move to Arsenal.
This 33-year-old winger is now available on a free transfer after leaving Galatasaray. He spent his last season on loan at MLS side Charlotte.
Zaha's ability to operate on the left flank and create one-on-one opportunities through his dribbling could complement Arsenal's strengths in attack, especially when it comes to set pieces.
Jadon Sancho
Jadon Sancho stands out as the most intriguing option due to his age—just 26.
The Englishman is capable of playing on both flanks and showcased the talent to secure a place in any top club’s starting XI during his time at Borussia Dortmund.
Since returning to England, however, Sancho has struggled to recapture his best form. A clash with Erik ten Hag at Manchester United marked a turning point, and subsequent loans to Chelsea and Aston Villa have failed to rejuvenate his career.
A move to Arsenal could offer Sancho the potential for a bright comeback, but it would also carry the challenge of finding that consistency once again.
