Arsenal target Real Madrid's Gonzalo Garcia as potential long-term striker option
Arsenal are reportedly working on a deal to sign Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Garcia during the upcoming summer transfer window, according to Spanish publication Fichajes. The Gunners are said to be structuring the financial details of a potential move for the 22-year-old, with the possible permanent departure of Gabriel Jesus mooted as a way to help fund the transfer.
Mikel Arteta's side, enjoying a strong 2025-26 campaign, are expected to be active in the market to strengthen their squad further. While FootballTransfers understands that Newcastle United's Valentino Livramento and Sandro Tonali are key targets, along with interest in Rafael Leao and Francesco Pio Esposito, Garcia has emerged as a new name on the club's striker shortlist. Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez and Club Brugge's Nicolo Tresoldi have also been identified as dream signings, but the pursuit of Garcia appears to be advancing.
The young Spaniard has found opportunities limited at the Santiago Bernabeu this season, making just 12 starts across all competitions due to the presence of Kylian Mbappe. Despite this, Garcia has managed six goals and two assists in his appearances, demonstrating his potential in limited minutes. His form for Spain's Under-21 side has been more prolific, scoring in each of his last five matches for his country.
For Arsenal, the move is viewed as one for both the immediate and long-term future. Initially, Garcia would likely fill the rotation role currently occupied by Jesus, providing cover and competition for primary striker Viktor Gyokeres. His arrival would offer Arteta a different profile in attack, with his development carefully managed through substitute appearances in the Premier League and starts in domestic and European cup competitions.
The long-term view, however, could see Garcia eventually succeed Gyokeres as the club's leading centre-forward. The Swedish international will turn 28 in June, and Arsenal's hierarchy is seemingly planning for a succession. Garcia's age and potential for growth align with the club's model of investing in young talent capable of appreciating in value and performance.
A potential complication for Arsenal could emerge from reported interest from Newcastle United, who may provide competition for Garcia's signature. The financial structure of any deal remains unclear, with no specific fee mentioned in the reports. Real Madrid's willingness to sell a promising young talent they signed only recently will be a key factor in negotiations.
If completed, the transfer would represent a significant step in Arsenal's ongoing squad evolution, adding a high-potential striker to a forward line that already boasts considerable firepower. It signals a continued commitment to building a squad capable of challenging on all fronts for seasons to come.
