Isak, Gyokeres, Osimhen, Solanke – Potential Arsenal signings following Benjamin Sesko’s transfer decision
Arsenal look likely to miss out on Benjamin Sesko this summer, with the Slovenian striker set to sign a new contract with RB Leipzig.
The 21-year-old has attracted interest from clubs across Europe due to his impressive goal-scoring record with the Bundesliga side, netting 18 goals and providing two assists in all competitions last season. At 6ft 5ins, he presents a dominant physical presence and has the technique to match.
football.london understands that the Gunners are in search of a striker this summer, as a clinical frontman is believed to be needed in Mikel Arteta’s squad. However, with Sesko likely to stay in Germany, Arsenal will have to explore other options to strengthen their attack before the start of the 2024/25 season.
Thankfully, there are several targets Arsenal could consider to add a clinical edge to their attack, despite having scored 91 goals in the Premier League last season.
Sam Truelove – Content Editor:
Benjamin Sesko’s decision to stay at RB Leipzig is understandable given his age and need for development. This could be a blessing for Edu, who now turns to other options. Ideal for Arsenal would be Alexander Isak, but that deal seems unlikely. Ivan Toney from Brentford, entering the final year of his contract, could be available for around £50 million. Toney offers a physical presence, clinical finishing, and the ability to drop deep for build-up play, making him a suitable transfer target.
Lee Wilmot – Head of Football:
Personally, I didn’t see Benjamin Sesko as the right fit for leading Arsenal’s line next season. Despite Arsenal’s 91 goals last season, they lacked a focal point. To improve and win silverware, a proven Premier League goalscorer is essential. Dominic Solanke has experience, but Alexander Isak is the one who can make Arsenal more formidable. Isak brings goals, strength, and pace and still has plenty of time to develop. Arsenal should invest in him, similar to their purchase of Declan Rice.
Jack Flintham – Sports Audience Writer:
Missing out on Sesko might seem significant, but it also posed a risk. Arsenal should target Alexander Isak. He has everything needed in a Premier League striker: speed, strength, aerial ability, and lethal finishing. The challenge is whether Newcastle would sell to a rival, but if forced by FFP regulations, Isak should be Arsenal’s top priority. Arsenal must act quickly to avoid Newcastle securing him with a new contract.
Joe Doyle – Content Editor:
Arsenal should prioritize signing Alexander Isak. While he would be costly, similar to Declan Rice, his abilities justify the investment. Isak has pace, skill, great timing, and finishing ability. If Arsenal is serious about adding a No.9 this summer and has the funds, Isak is the best choice.
Oliver Jones – Football Writer:
Missing out on Sesko isn’t catastrophic. The priority should be Alexander Isak, who has all the attributes Arsenal needs in a centre-forward: pace, passing, finishing, ball-carrying, and hold-up play. The main concerns are his price tag and injury issues. However, if kept fit, he would be a significant threat to Manchester City’s dominance. If not Isak, then Viktor Gyokeres, who brings consistent goal-scoring.
Jake Stokes – Sports Audience Writer:
Although Benjamin Sesko would have been a good signing, Alexander Isak should have been Arsenal’s top priority. Isak is a complete striker with excellent technical skills, ball-carrying, intelligence in possession, and superb finishing. He consistently proved his quality last season and is expected to improve further. If Arsenal can’t secure Isak, Dominic Solanke would be a sensible alternative, offering similar qualities at a more reasonable price than Viktor Gyokeres or Victor Osimhen.
Tom Coley – Central Audience Writer:
Not signing Sesko might be beneficial for Arsenal. Although talented, Sesko might not have provided the immediate impact needed. Solanke or Isak would be better options for closing the gap more quickly. Isak is the ideal choice, offering a complete package and the potential to improve further. Arsenal should break the bank for him.