At a Glance:
- Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli’s contracts both expire in 2027.
- Arsenal are subsequently looking to sign a left winger in the summer.
- Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and a Premier League star are their two primary targets.
Arsenal are intent on strengthening the left-hand side of their attack in the summer and have identified Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, alongside an established Premier League winger, as their primary targets.
Both Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli’s contracts expire in 2027, and thus, the Gunners sense an opportunity to move on from at least one of them. The two wide forwards have been significant contributors to Mikel Arteta’s team in recent seasons, although there is a feeling amongst the hierarchy at the Emirates that the left wing is a position that can be improved upon.
Reports emerged on Wednesday suggesting that Arsenal are investigating the possibility of signing Kvaratskhelia, although a deal is expected to be complicated due to Paris Saint-Germain’s reluctance to sanction the Georgian’s departure. Thus, the North Londoners have an alternative target in mind – and it’s a deal they’ve already started exploring.
Arsenal eyeing summer move for Premier League winger
While Arsenal are interested in signing Julian Alvarez, it would appear their primary concern heading into the summer is bolstering the left side of their attack, rather than signing another striker. Kvaratskhelia may be the dream acquisition for Arteta, but other targets need to be lined up in the very likely scenario that a deal for the 25-year-old cannot be done.
According to Sky Sports, Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon is among the list of names Arsenal are considering to fill this role in their squad. The Gunners’ interest in Gordon has been well documented for some time, and it would appear that they may now be set to initiate a move for the former Everton man.
Gordon 📈#UCL pic.twitter.com/5U2gtvSYXQ
— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) February 20, 2026
The England international would likely be interested in a move to the Emirates, although his contract situation at St. James’ Park complicates matters. Tied down until 2030, Gordon has minimal leverage, with Newcastle holding the bargaining power in potential negotiations.
This could ultimately mean that the Magpies demand an excessive fee for the winger, which may price Arsenal out of a move. While the Gunners plan to provide themselves with some financial wriggle room by sanctioning a major sale, they currently have minimal PSR headroom and need to be cautious with their incoming business.
Anthony Gordon and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s statistics compared
It won’t be a huge surprise to many that Kvaratskhelia profiles much more impressively, from a statistical standpoint, than Gordon. The Georgia international takes far more shots, creates more chances and completes more dribbles.
That said, the strength of the respective leagues in which they ply their trade should be taken into consideration. Gordon is playing for a mid-table side in a much more challenging league, while Kvaratskhelia is playing for the dominant side in a less-demanding division.
| Statistical Comparison 2025/26 (League Only) | ||
| Stat | Gordon | Kvaratskhelia |
| Appearances | 25 | 22 |
| Goals | 6 | 4 |
| Assists | 2 | 3 |
| Shots per 90 | 2.43 | 3.88 |
| Non-Penalty Expected Goals per 90 | 0.33 | 0.41 |
| Key Passes per 90 | 1.34 | 2.17 |
| Expected Assists per 90 | 0.17 | 0.34 |
| Successful Dribbles per 90 | 1.7 | 2.41 |
In the Champions League, Gordon has netted ten goals to his PSG counterpart’s seven. Thus, while Kvaratskhelia is still the better player, the gap between the two stars may not be as wide as people think.
However, if the prospective fees are in a similar region, then the Gunners should undoubtedly prioritise the PSG talisman if possible.
