Paul Merson names key position Arsenal need to strengthen after loss to Newcastle in Carabao Cup clash

Pundit Paul Merson believes that Arsenal need to improve in the striking department following their Carabao Cup loss in midweek. The Gunners were beaten 2-0 by Newcastle United at the Emirates Stadium in the first leg of this semi-final tie on Tuesday (January 7).

It was Mikel Arteta's side who enjoyed most of the ball (70%) and also created a fair few chances. Gabriel Martinelli came close to scoring from a one-on-one situation in the first half, where he managed to strike the near post.

In total, the north London outfit registered 23 shots compared to the Magpies seven. However, Arsenal only hit the target on three occasions. Claiming that improvement is needed in forward areas, Merson wrote on X (formerly Twitter):

"Shocking result for Arsenal 23 shots at goal, no goal, got to get an out and out centre forward."

It was Kai Havertz who started this match in the No. 9 position after missing his team's previous two matches due to illness. He also spurned a glorious opportunity to pull a goal back from two down towards the end of this fixture. The German failed to head home a deflected cross from just a couple of yards out.

Although Havertz wasn't at his best against Newcastle, he has netted 12 goals across competitions and bagged three assists in 26 matches this season.

On top of that, Gabriel Jesus seemingly arrived at the party and found his form in front of goal. The Brazilian has scored six times in his last six games across competitions.

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Arsenal gearing up for stiff competition from Premier League clubs for Jonathan David signature - Reports

Jonathan David

Arsenal are reportedly set to face stiff competition from a number of Premier League clubs for the signature of Lille striker Jonathan David. The Canada international is expected to leave his current side for free in the summer once his contract runs out.

With less than six months left on his deal, Sky Sports claims that some English teams have already approached the attacker over pre-contract talks (via Mirror). He is certain to be a hot prospect over the next few months, given that David has scored 17 goals and bagged five assists in 27 matches in this campaign.

A move to the Emirates may be tempting as it would provide the 24-year-old a chance to compete for top honors. The Gunners have finished second in the Premier League in the last two seasons and are expected to compete for the league title in the ongoing season.