Arsenal and Nottingham Forest set for shock January transfer window battle for Brentford forward Yoane Wissa

According to The Telegraph, as the January transfer window rumbles on the DR Congo international’s impressive form this season, which includes 12 goals across all competitions, has attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs. Forest, currently thriving under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, are reportedly eyeing Wissa as a replacement if Taiwo Awoniyi departs in January. West Ham are said to be interested in Awoniyi, leaving Forest with a potential void to fill in their attack.

Arsenal, too, are keen on adding Wissa to their roster as Mikel Arteta looks to address injuries to key players Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka. Wissa’s ability to play across the front three has made him a particularly appealing option for the Spaniard. The forward’s flexibility and goal-scoring prowess have drawn comparisons to Brentford team-mate Bryan Mbeumo, another player Arsenal have monitored.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank, however, is determined to retain his top talent. Speaking to talkSPORT, Frank was unequivocal when asked if Mbeumo, who has also impressed this season, might leave in January.

"No." Frank immediately replied. "So, very easy to answer that question!"

While Mbeumo appears to be staying put, Wissa's future remains uncertain. Brentford reportedly valued Wissa at £50 million ($61m) in November, a price tag that reflects his growing importance to the team. Wissa recently became Brentford’s all-time leading Premier League scorer, surpassing Ivan Toney—a striker previously on Arsenal’s radar.

With both Arsenal and Nottingham Forest vying for Wissa’s signature, the January transfer window promises to be pivotal for all parties involved. Brentford will aim to retain their star forward, but the lure of a move to a top-tier club might prove tempting for Wissa. The Gunners will be back in action against Aston Villa on Saturday, whereas, Forest will host Southampton a day later in the Premier League.