Arsenal must find upgrade on Alexandre Lacazette this month

Arsenal missed the chance to jump into the top four of the Premier League on Sunday after a frustrating goalless draw against Burnley at home.

The Gunners dominated the proceedings with 76 per cent possession and 20 shots, but Nick Pope had a relatively comfortable game between the sticks.

Just five of their attempts were on target. Lacazette was once again frustrating with his two shots away from goal. He squandered a big chance to open the scoring.

Emile Smith Rowe made a brilliant counter-attacking run before putting the ball on the plate for him to score. Lacazette slashed his effort wide of the far post.

It capped off a frustrating evening for the Gunners, and there is now a genuine concern up front with Lacazette misfiring with his chances for an extended period.

Yes, the 30-year-old is quite efficient with his link-up play, and can play through balls from deep attacking positions. It was once again on his display against the Clarets.

However, his primary job remains to find the back of the net, and there are worrying signs for the Gunners with the £18 million-rated star looking void of confidence in the box.

It is well known that the club are looking for an elite striker this month, and they have spent the past three weeks trying to negotiate a suitable deal for Dusan Vlahovic.

While Fiorentina would be willing to sanction his sale, the stumbling block appears from the player’s side. The striker and his representative are prepared to wait until the summer.

This has led to an extended transfer saga this month, and time is running out to convince him. The Gunners could be better off turning their attention to other targets.

The club are still in control of their Champions League destiny. They are two points behind fourth-placed Manchester United, having played one game less than them.

However, the pressure is expected to pile with the expectations in the coming weeks, and a slump in form after the winter break could have big repercussions for the season.

It has been a pretty bleak start to the year, having not scored in the last four games. Lacazette has started in three of those, and it is quite clear that the club need an upgrade.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has been a game-changer in recent years, but he has regressed and does not appear in contention following a disciplinary breach last month.

There is talk of him leaving in the coming days. Amidst this, the Gunners desperately need a new striker, more preferably Vlahovic, who can capitalise on the chances created.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com and SofaScore.com

Read: Arsenal pushing to close deal for Arthur Melo.