Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright has said that the Gunners need to add more players in January if they are to win something this season. 

Arsenal lost 2-0 to Newcastle United in a Carabao Cup semi-final first leg on Tuesday night at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners had a total of 23 shots in the game, but only recorded three on target.

They had a chance to open the scoring in the first half as Gabriel Martinelli hit the post on a lightning-fast break from Mikel Arteta‘s side.

However, minutes later, Arsenal transfer target Alexander Isak scored the opening goal of the game in the 37th minute to put Newcastle 1-0 up.

The Magpies then doubled their league in the second half after an Isak assist led to a goal from England international Anthony Gordon, leaving the scoreline at 2-0.

It gives Eddie Howe’s side a fantastic advantage heading into the second leg at the start of February, handing Arsenal a tough test at St James’ Park.

Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright said that despite how hard it is to make big signings in January, the Gunners need to make some squad improvements.

He said on ITV Sport: “You’re getting players who aren’t natural strikers, and they’re missing chances. This is where now, looking at Arsenal, you’ve got to be looking at the board now. I don’t know what you can do in January, but you’ve got to try and do something if you’re going to finish this season and try to win something. 

“I’m looking at Mikel Arteta, he needs help. I know its very difficult to get anything in this January window, but he needs something else, because if its going to carry on like this, then its going to be very difficult to score. 

“We’re not scoring with the chances we’re making, something needs to change.”

Arsenal linked to signing several top strikers

It won’t be an easy task for the Gunners, but having seen the first half of the season, the Arsenal board may decide that they need to splash the cash on a new striker.

They have been linked with Newcastle star Isak, but also Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, who has recently been linked with a move to Manchester United.

Furthermore, a cheaper option has emerged in Atalanta striker Mateo Retegui, who would seem a more realistic target for a January move costing around £46.5m.