Arsenal Discussing Transfer with £54m Forward, Though Arteta Has Different Preference

Arsenal have opened direct discussions with a £54 million-rated striker about a potential transfer, but manager Mikel Arteta actually has his sights set on a different target.

While Kai Havertz has performed well as a makeshift center forward and Gabriel Jesus recently boosted his confidence with a hat-trick against Crystal Palace, Arsenal recognize the need to sign an elite striker in 2025. The club is evaluating options for either the January or summer transfer window.

Interim sporting director Jason Ayto and managing director Richard Garlick are leading Arsenal’s recruitment efforts following Edu’s departure. They are exploring the possibility of acquiring a world-class goalscorer who can make a major impact.

Some board members are advocating for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak as a top target. There have also been reported talks with Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic’s representatives. Additionally, Arsenal have shown interest in lesser-known options like Spartak Moscow’s Manfred Ugalde, who has an attainable £25 million release clause.

However, the latest reports indicate Arsenal are in direct negotiations with Sporting Lisbon striker Viktor Gyokeres. The Portuguese club is willing to sell him for around £54 million, well below his £85 million release clause. The Swedish forward has been in stellar form this season with 27 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions.

Despite Gyokeres’ impressive numbers, Arteta’s preferred target is actually RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenian striker is reportedly Arteta’s top priority to lead Arsenal’s attack. If Sesko proves unattainable again after a failed summer pursuit, the club would then focus fully on trying to sign Gyokeres.

Arsenal appear to be exploring multiple high-profile striker options as they look to bolster their attack for the long-term. The coming transfer windows will reveal which target they ultimately decide to pursue.