Arsenal’s relentless pursuit of a top-class striker continues to dominate the headlines, with Alexander Isak long viewed as the crown jewel of Mikel Arteta’s summer wishlist. The Swedish forward, currently dazzling at Newcastle, has racked up 22 goals in 32 matches—a compelling statistic for any top club. But with Newcastle holding firm on a sky-high valuation north of £130 million and unlikely to budge if they clinch Champions League football, Arsenal may be forced to pivot. That pivot, however, isn’t without promise. Several alternatives with the skill and profile to elevate Arsenal’s frontline are firmly on the radar.
Among them, Benjamin Sesko has reemerged as a major contender. Arsenal have tracked the 21-year-old Slovenian since last year, and even though he extended his stay with RB Leipzig, there’s murmured talk of a “gentleman’s agreement” allowing a potential transfer. A £62 million deal—far more palatable than Isak’s cost—could tempt the Gunners to reignite their interest, especially as Sesko checks many boxes for Arteta’s system.
Sesko brings a blend of power and finesse that’s rare in players his age. Towering at 6’4″, yet graceful in movement, he’s struck 14 goals and supplied three assists this season across all competitions. Whether holding the line as a traditional nine or drifting wide to stretch defenses, he fits Arsenal’s need for a dynamic, multi-functional forward. Online chatter even hints that he might be the club’s “number one striker target” should the Isak deal collapse.
One of the few stumbling blocks in the Sesko pursuit is playtime assurance. It’s reportedly what stalled previous talks, but the landscape has shifted. Gabriel Jesus is sidelined with a major injury, and Kai Havertz is struggling to consistently produce goals. The door may be wide open for Sesko to walk into the starting eleven, a selling point Arsenal can strongly emphasize.
If it’s immediate firepower Arsenal wants, then Viktor Gyokeres offers a tried-and-tested route. The Swedish forward has been prolific for Sporting CP, chalking up a combined 90 goals across two seasons. At 27, he’s entering his prime, and a transfer fee floating between £59-70 million feels like a justifiable gamble. Arsenal are believed to be seriously eyeing him, especially with Newcastle digging in on Isak.
Though Portugal’s top division isn’t as intense as the Premier League, Gyokeres’ blend of raw strength, direct play, and sheer tenacity may translate well in England. New sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly an admirer, and Gyokeres himself is open to a Premier League move, which could give Arsenal the edge in a race that includes Chelsea and United.
Osimhen, on the other hand, offers a more glamorous but risk-laced route. The Nigerian forward made his name leading Napoli to a Serie A title and is now on loan at Galatasaray. Despite recent injuries, his £55 million valuation and history of high-level performances across Europe make him a tantalizing target. Arsenal have always been linked to him, and he’s the kind of player who could change the tempo of a match in an instant.
Still, the Osimhen route isn’t without red flags. His injury history is patchy, and whispers suggest he prefers a move to Juventus. Arsenal’s need for a traditional No. 9 could sway the balance, especially in light of Jesus’ ongoing issues and Havertz’s role evolution. But committing to Osimhen would be a bold bet—one that might soar or sting.
Ultimately, Arsenal’s striker chase is about more than just filling a gap—it’s about leapfrogging rivals like Liverpool and reshaping the squad with purpose. Injuries have revealed the squad’s soft underbelly, and Arteta’s insistence on impactful signings speaks volumes. Whether it’s the raw upside of Sesko, the sure-footed reliability of Gyokeres, or the explosive potential of Osimhen, Arsenal’s next move could define the 2025/26 season.
Leave a Reply