Exclusive: Arsenal want £50m forward who plays like Dennis Bergkamp; watched him multiple times this season

Arsenal’s quest to sign a new striker is set to continue this season and it could take them to a player who has a number of clubs interested.

The Gunners have seen Kai Havertz shine in recent weeks to take the pressure off landing a natural number nine a touch.

However, there remains a feeling among most connected to Arsenal that a new striker is indeed something they’ll look to pursue in the summer.

A number of names have been linked already ahead of what is set to be a busy summer once again.

Dusan Vlahovic continues to get a mention, while the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and of course, Ivan Toney, have been linked as well.

But according to TBR Football sources, it is the name of Joshua Zirkzee that is starting to gather pace behind the scenes at Arsenal.

Arsenal really keen on signing Joshua Zirkzee

TBR Football understands that Arsenal maintain a strong interest in Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee. Arsenal are looking at forward options this summer and the likes of Dusan Vlahovic, Benjamin Sesko, Lois Openda and Alexander Isak are on their radar.

TBR Football can confirm that Zirkzee is also of significant interest to The Gunners and they have been assessing the Dutchman for much of the season. Zirkzee joined Bologna in 2022 and this season he has shone under Thiago Motta with 12 goals and four assists to his name.

His former club Bayern Munich hold a buy-back option, but it is believed the player is not looking to move back to Germany at this point. Arsenal appreciate Zirkzee and TBR Football understands they have watched him a number of times in recent months, including against Roma earlier this month when he scored in Bologna’s 3-1 success at the Stadio Olimpico. Arsenal, though, will face a battle to land Zirkzee if they push ahead with interest in him. AC Milan have turned their attention to him with a move for Viktor Gyokeres now looking tough, although Juventus are set to join the chase for his signature – should, as expected, Motta takes charge in Turin.

Dennis Bergkamp comparisons

Any sort of mention of legends like Dennis Bergkamp or Thierry Henry is always going to capture the attention of Arsenal fans and Joshua Zirkzee has had those comparisons.

Former Italy international Francesco Graziani has been quoted by Bologna Sport News lauding Zirkzee’s potential.

“Technically he is very good and has shown that he sees the goal. In Zirkzee I seem to see the Dutch Dennis Bergkamp: someone who made your eyes shine with his technique,” he said.

Bologna are thought to be looking for around £50m to sell Zirkzee and Arsenal could well be willing to splash out.

Indeed, if he is anything like Dennis Bergkamp, or even half as good, then the Gunners fans might be in for a treat.

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