Report: Arsenal have second bid rejected for forward, third bid likely to follow

Arsenal are continuing their search for a new striker to add to the club at U21 level, with the Gunners stepping up their efforts in the transfer market after a number of setbacks.

The North London club have had a second bid rejected for Blackburn Rovers’ highly rated 17-year-old striker Igor Tyjon, according to The Athletic. Arsenal had identified Tyjon as a key target to complement Harriman-Annous, who has impressed coaches with his explosive pace and direct style. Tyjon, a prolific scorer in Blackburn’s youth setup, is attracting widespread interest, but Blackburn remain determined to keep hold of him unless a significant offer is received.

Having already signed Viktor Gyokeres for the first team, Arsenal need attacking reinforcements at academy level, and this need has only grown over the past 12 months. The club were dealt a blow last season when Chido Obi, one of the most promising young forwards in the setup, left to join Manchester United. That departure has left a noticeable gap in the club’s youth ranks, particularly in central attacking positions.

Their recruitment challenges continued this summer after they missed out on talented forward Will Wright, who has joined Liverpool instead. Arsenal had been monitoring Wright for some time, but the Merseyside club moved decisively to secure his signature.

With the new season rapidly approaching, Arsenal are eager to secure a young striker who can work alongside Harriman-Annous and provide the U21 side with more depth and attacking variety. The club remain hopeful of adding a dynamic goalscorer to their ranks and could return with an improved offer for Tyjon or pivot to other targets if negotiations continue to stall.

The Gunners’ commitment to strengthening their youth setup is clear, and they are expected to remain active in the market over the coming weeks as they look to ensure a steady pipeline of talent is available for both the U21s and, ultimately, the senior squad. A third bid for Tyjon is likely, considering Arsenal’s determination so far to sign him and the fact their alternartive target, Wright, has chosen Liverpool.