# Arsenal Face Obstacles in January Pursuit of Antonio Nusa RB Leipzig demands astronomical fees, making a mid-season transfer for the Norwegian forward unlikely. - **Source:** [FourFourTwo](https://www.fourfourtwo.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/23922b15-5355-46a5-be2d-6c2f6db9e543 ## Transfer Ambitions Stalled Arsenal is actively seeking a high-caliber attacker to bolster their frontline during the January transfer window. Despite sending a delegation to watch Antonio Nusa in action at RB Leipzig, reports suggest a deal is currently deemed almost impossible. The club aims to maintain their competitive edge across three distinct tournament fronts. ## Squad Depth Challenges Manager Mikel Arteta faces tactical dilemmas with his current attacking rotation. While Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke compete on the right, Eberechi Eze struggles to adapt to a permanent left-wing role. The recent departure of key players like Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli has left the squad feeling somewhat thin in offensive depth. ## Leipzig's Financial Leverage RB Leipzig holds a strong negotiating position after securing a nine-figure fee for Yan Diomande from Real Madrid last summer. Consequently, the German club is only prepared to consider astronomical offers for their talent. This financial stance complicates Arsenal's goal of acquiring game-changing players without overpaying during the difficult mid-season market. ## Nusa's Rising Valuation The 21-year-old Norwegian forward has demonstrated exceptional form, recording six goals and eight assists in just 15 appearances this season. His profile rose further after a starring role in Norway's World Cup campaign, which saw them reach the quarter-finals. Transfermarkt currently estimates the player's market value at approximately €45 million. ## Historical Transfer Precedents Arsenal has previous experience negotiating with RB Leipzig, having successfully signed Viktor Gyokeres after failing to secure Benjamin Sesko. Sesko eventually moved to Manchester United following a breakdown in price negotiations. These past dealings highlight the difficulty of securing favorable terms with the East German outfit during high-stakes transfer windows. ## Alternative Scouting Targets Beyond Nusa, Arsenal has monitored Eli Junior Kroupi as a potential addition to their shortlist. Bournemouth is expected to demand a record-breaking fee for the wonderkid, especially following the sale of Antoine Semenyo last January. Contract uncertainties surrounding other Bournemouth talents like Alex Scott further complicate potential high-value moves for the Gunners. ## Market Timing Realities The club acknowledges that January is historically a challenging period to secure bargains for elite talent. Arsenal management is well aware that bringing in a transformative player will require paying a significant premium above standard valuations. This reality forces the recruitment team to weigh immediate squad needs against long-term financial sustainability. ## Immediate Competitive Focus While transfer rumors persist, Arsenal must shift their focus back to domestic league duties. The team is preparing for a crucial upcoming match against Newcastle United following the conclusion of the international break. Success in these fixtures remains the primary priority for Arteta while the club navigates complex winter transfer negotiations. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.fourfourtwo.com/transfer/arsenal-told-its-almost-impossible-to-sign-antonio-nusa-in-january-report — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._