Frank Christian
Arsenal is clearly focused on signing Sporting CP’s prolific forward, Viktor Gyokeres. The Gunners are among numerous European teams vying for his commitment this summer.
The club is in urgent need of a reliable striker capable of finding the back of the net regularly, as Mikel Arteta aims for significant improvements in this area.
While Gyokeres appears to be a perfect fit for Arsenal’s plans for the upcoming season, there’s no certainty that he will choose the Emirates Stadium. Given the competition for the Swedish star, the Gunners must consider several other options.
Here are three forwards who could enhance the Arsenal lineup as they pursue the Premier League title next season.
Hugo Ekitike (Eintracht Frankfurt)
Hugo Ekitike might be an unexpected name on this list, but his impressive performance has caught the attention of clubs like Chelsea. The former PSG player has thrived at the Bundesliga club, particularly after Omar Marmoush’s departure midseason.
The French striker has netted 22 goals and provided 12 assists in 48 matches this season. He possesses the ability to score and create opportunities, adding versatility to Arteta’s tactics.
According to Squawka, he leads the Bundesliga in touches within the opponent’s penalty area, boasting a total of 206 touches this season.
As reported by Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Frankfurt is firm in their position, demanding €100 million for Ekitike, or else he won’t be leaving. The player seems eager for a transfer, with Chelsea and other clubs in pursuit.
Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig)
Moving on to another striker from the Bundesliga, Arsenal holds Benjamin Sesko in high esteem and views him as a key backup option should they miss out on Gyokeres.
The Gunners expressed interest in him last season, but Sesko opted to remain at Leipzig.
Despite his earlier decision, Arsenal continues to track the tall Slovenian striker. However, his release clause has skyrocketed to over €80 million due to performance incentives in his current contract. This season, he has scored 21 goals in all competitions, including 13 in the Bundesliga.
With Leipzig not qualifying for next season’s Champions League, Sesko may be inclined to seek a transfer this summer.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Though it may seem a long shot, Arsenal could revert to their previous target, Ollie Watkins. The Gunners had an offer of £40 million turned down last January. However, with his contract winding down, they could attempt to bring the Aston Villa striker to North London.
While the England international hasn’t matched his previous season’s scoring rate, he still managed 17 goals in 53 matches across all competitions, with 16 of those in the Premier League alongside eight assists.
His playing time has diminished this season due to the presence of Jhon Duran and loaned player Marcus Rashford.
Overall, Watkins presents a viable option for Arteta and could be acquired at a less daunting price compared to the other forwards mentioned.
Arsenal news and related links
- Jamie Carragher praises Arsenal’s Mikel Arteta for bold transfer decisions
- Mikel Arteta acknowledges the need for a striker and plans to keep a key midfielder
- Key Arsenal signing could hinge on Manchester United’s Europa League Final outcome
