According to a report by footballTransfers on Thursday October 22, 2026, Arsenal are monitoring Monza forward Gustavo Varela as they assess their options for a potential striker signing in 2027.

Viktor Gyökeres has struggled to make an impact this season, scoring no goals in his first eight appearances.

The Sweden international has started only in the Champions League and Carabao Cup, with limited playing time in the Premier League. Reports suggest he may be unhappy with his reduced role and could consider leaving as early as January.

A mid-season departure is far from certain, but Arsenal appear to be tracking possible replacements. Atlético Madrid’s Julián Álvarez and Club Brugge’s Nicolò Tresoldi have also been linked with the Gunners.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Varela is another name on Arsenal’s radar. The 21-year-old has made a strong start at Monza, scoring six goals in six Serie A appearances. He joined the Italian club from Benfica this summer for a reported €2.5 million.

Varela came through Sporting CP’s academy before continuing his development at PAOK and Benfica. After a loan spell with Gil Vicente, he moved to Monza and has quickly attracted attention.

The report says several clubs are interested, with Napoli’s pursuit appearing more advanced than Arsenal’s.

Benfica reportedly hold matching rights and a 20 per cent sell-on clause, rather than a buy-back option. Napoli may need a forward in January, while Arsenal are currently understood to be scouting Varela rather than preparing a bid.

Monza coach Ivan Jurić has praised the young striker’s potential, saying he still has significant room to improve.

With limited experience at the top level, however, Varela would represent a gamble for Arsenal not an established replacement for Gyökeres.