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Mikel Arteta must solve Arsenal’s issues up front before he can bring success to the club, according to Tony Cascarino. The Gunners failed to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after he left for Barcelona in January, whilst Alexandre Lacazette has struggled for goals this season and is out of contract in the summer.

Meanwhile, the club’s only other senior striker, Eddie Nketiah, is yet to score in the top flight in 13 appearances this term and is also out of contract in June. The lack of firepower was particularly evident during the 2-1 defeat to Brighton on Saturday.

The loss was a damaging blow to Arsenal's hopes of a top four finish and was further compounded by Tottenham’s 4-0 win at Aston Villa. Victory in the Midlands left Antonio Conte’s side three points clear of fifth placed Arsenal and in pole position to clinch a place in next season's Champions League - though the Gunners have a game in hand.

Every word Mikel Arteta had to say on Xhaka at left back, Lacazette, VAR and top four

Whether Arsenal qualify for European football’s elite club competition could affect the quality of striker they're capable of signing. And Cascarino is adamant that Arteta must address the issue in the summer before the Gunners can be successful.

"Lacazette is probably the