Arsenal face 'almost impossible' January pursuit of RB Leipzig's Antonio Nusa

Arsenal’s pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Antonio Nusa has hit a significant wall, with Sky Germany reporting that a January transfer is “almost impossible” unless the Gunners submit an “astronomical offer” for the 21-year-old Norwegian.

The Gunners sent a delegation to Leipzig last week to watch Nusa in action, underlining genuine interest in a player who has registered six goals and eight assists in just 15 appearances this season. Yet Leipzig’s firm stance on his valuation — Transfermarkt currently places him at €45 million — combined with the inherent difficulty of January business, makes a deal look increasingly unlikely before the summer window.

Arsenal’s need for attacking reinforcement has been well-documented. The club lost Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Leandro Trossard over the summer, bringing in Christos Tzolis as a replacement option. While Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke contest the right flank, and Viktor Gyokeres shares minutes up front with Kai Havertz, the left wing remains a concern — Tzolis lacks top-level experience, and Eberechi Eze is not considered a natural in that position, with Arteta reportedly reluctant to deploy him there on a permanent basis.

Leipzig’s negotiating position has been strengthened by their summer sale of Yan Diomande to Real Madrid for a nine-figure fee, signalling that the club are under no financial pressure to sell. Arsenal have navigated this dynamic before — they ultimately signed Gyokeres after failing to agree a price for Benjamin Sesko, who eventually joined Manchester United.

Nusa is not the only name on Arsenal’s shortlist. The Premier League champions are also monitoring Bournemouth’s Eli Junior Kroupi, though the south-coast club are expected to demand a record sale fee for the youngster. Separately, the contract situation surrounding Bournemouth’s Alex Scott — reportedly valued at around £100 million — adds further complexity to Arsenal’s attacking recruitment plans.

Nusa made a notable impression on the international stage during the summer, playing a starring role as Norway reached the quarter-finals of their first World Cup since 1998. His club form this season has only reinforced his reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young wide players, which is precisely why Leipzig have little incentive to negotiate a discount.