Arsenal Striker Search intensifies as Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres emerge as top targets for the club’s summer transfer strategy.
Arsenal has narrowed its striker search to Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) and Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP) as they look to strengthen their attack for the 2025-26 season. With injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz exposing their lack of depth, new sporting director Andrea Berta is leading efforts to secure a prolific frontman.
Arsenal’s attacking department has been plagued by injuries this season, leaving them without a recognized striker for significant periods. Gabriel Jesus has been sidelined since January with an ACL injury, while Kai Havertz, who has deputized up top, has been absent since February due to a hamstring issue sustained during a winter training break in exposed Arsenal’s lack of depth and clinical finishing, contributing to their 11-point deficit to Premier League leaders Liverpool. Despite their heroics in the Champions League, where they knocked out Real Madrid to reach the semi-finals, Arsenal’s domestic campaign has underscored the urgent need for a reliable goal-scorer.
With a reported £100 million transfer budget and compliance with Premier League financial rules, Arsenal are poised to make significant moves in the summer transfer window. The club’s recruitment team, led by Berta, has zeroed in on two standout strikers: Sesko and Gyokeres.
The Two-Man Shortlist: Sesko and Gyokeres
According to reports from Daily Maily, Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP and Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig have emerged as the main targets of Arsenal’s striker search. Both players have emerged as top targets due to their goal-scoring prowess, tactical fit, and potential to elevate Arsenal’s attack.
Benjamin Sesko: The 21-year-old Slovenian has been a revelation for Leipzig, scoring 16 goals in 35 appearances this season. His 17 goals and five assists in 34 matches, including three in the Champions League, have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young strikers. Sesko’s combination of physicality, aerial ability, and clinical finishing aligns with Arteta’s vision of a dynamic forward. Reports suggest Sesko is open to a move, with a transfer fee of around £60 million potentially securing his services. Arsenal’s prior interest gives them an edge, though they face competition from Manchester United and Chelsea.
Viktor Gyokeres: The 26-year-old Swedish striker has been a goal-scoring machine for Sporting CP, netting 38 goals in 32 matches this campaign. His recent hat-trick, including a superb free-kick, in a 3-1 win over Moreirense highlighted his lethal finishing and versatility. Gyokeres’ €100 million (£84.1 million) release clause is a hurdle, but a gentleman’s agreement could see him move for £51-60 million. Arteta is said to be “convinced” of Gyokeres’ fit, with his ability to play as a center-forward, right-winger, or left-winger offering tactical flexibility. Arsenal are frontrunners for his signature, though Liverpool, Manchester City, and European giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona are in the race.
While Sesko and Gyokeres are the primary targets, Arsenal remain keen on Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams to add dynamism to their left flank. The 22-year-old Spanish international, who shone at Euro 2024, is seen as the ideal competitor for Gabriel Martinelli. Williams’ €58 million (£48.5 million) release clause makes him an attractive option, and his 11 goals and seven assists this season underline his potential. Arteta’s admiration for Williams, coupled with Barcelona’s financial constraints ruling them out, has fueled optimism about a potential move.
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