Arsenal have been forced to change their plans this summer because of Benjamin Sesko.
The Gunners had identified the RB Leipzig star as their preferred striker target in this window. Arsenal’s rivals even believed they were the favourites to sign Sesko.
However, the Slovenia international decided to snub all the interest in him and has now penned a new contract at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig.
There have been rumours about Joshua Zirkzee and Arsenal since, but a not-so-exciting update on that situation has come out for Gunners fans now.
Arsenal’s decision on Joshua Zirkzee after Benjamin Sesko blow
Sesko would’ve been a great signing for Arsenal.
The Slovenian had all the characteristics that would want in a centre forward, and the fact that he’s still only 21 meant he would’ve been a brilliant long-term option.
However, Sesko decided it would be better for his development to stay at Leipzig, and that probably is the right move for him at this stage of his career.
Arsenal now have to look elsewhere to strengthen their attack.
Reports have claimed since Sesko’s decision that Arsenal could trigger Zirkzee’s release clause to bring him to the Emirates.
The Dutchman has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal for a few months, and many feel he would be a good signing.
However, The Athletic have all but rubbished those links.
The report claims that ‘Arsenal do not intend to pursue’ a move to sign Zirkzee in this summer’s transfer window.
Arsenal are unlikely to sign three other strikers too
Some fans and several pundits have been saying for over a year that Arsenal need a prolific striker to pip Manchester City to the title.
The Gunners have a world-class squad – they can beat any club in the world on their day. However, the one thing Arteta doesn’t have at his disposal is a striker who will guarantee over 25 goals a season, like Erling Haaland does for Pep Guardiola.
That’s why Arsenal are in the market for a new number nine, but along with Sesko and Zirkzee, three other strikers are not expected to move to the Emirates this summer.
Viktor Gyokeres, Alexander Isak and Ivan Toney are all unlikely to be signed by Arsenal in 2024. The first two are because of their price tags, while the Brentford man’s behaviour is the reason why Arteta doesn’t want him.
Now, it will be interesting to see who Arsenal will turn to if they do sign a new striker this summer.