A young striker who has attracted interest from more than one English club – Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur

In recent seasons, Arsenal have rebuilt their squad with young, ambitious players, but they continue to struggle with the same problem. The 2024/25 campaign ended in frustration for the Gunners, who fell short in decisive matches. Gabriel Jesus failed to deliver in the box, and Kai Havertz, although useful in rotation, did not take on the role of goalscorer. Mikel Arteta knows this well. If they don’t find a reliable ‘number nine’, the team’s ceiling will remain low.

Even without announcing any major signings, the club have sent clear signals. They have sent scouts to multiple matches across Europe and have studied a wide variety of profiles. They are not just looking for an established striker. They are willing to bet on youth, someone who can grow in London, push from the bench, and eventually take centre stage. With that in mind, one name has begun to be mentioned frequently: Nelson Weiper.

Weiper interests in Arsenal, Tottenham and Brentford

According to French journalist Sébastien Vidal, Nelson Weiper is among Arsenal’s targets to strengthen their attack this summer. The 20-year-old striker, owned by FSV Mainz 05, could leave for around €14 million. It is not only the Gunners who are tracking him. Tottenham and Brentford are also said to be interested.

Weiper has been coming up through the Mainz youth ranks since 2013. His rise has been gradual but steady. He made his first-team debut in 2022/23 and last season played 25 games, scoring three goals and providing two assists. Despite the player’s young age, he has the physique, instinct and attitude to fit in with the Premier League.

London or continue to grow in Germany?

Arsenal seem like an ideal place if we think about the future. Weiper would not arrive as a starter, but he could work alongside Arteta and learn in a demanding environment that is patient with young players. However, Tottenham also represents a solid option. There is less direct competition there, and the number nine position is not settled.

If it’s about immediate playing time, Brentford may offer him more. However, if you think long-term, Arsenal offers stability, European exposure and a style that could bring out the best in him. The signing is not yet finalised, but if the Gunners bet big, they could beat their rivals to the punch. Weiper is not a flashy signing, but he could be a brilliant move.