Arsenal are now set to alter their summer transfer plans after missing out on signing striker Benjamin Sesko.
Arsenal were keen to secure the services of Benjamin Sesko this summer.
The Gunners were in the hunt for the Slovenian forward, as Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his strikeforce. However, Sesko has now opted to stay at RB Leipzig, and has penned a new deal with the Bundesliga outfit, ending any speculation that he may switch to the Premier League ahead of the new season.
Following this disappointment, Arsenal will now have to pivot to alternative targets. A striker may well still be on the agenda. Bournemouth attacker Dominic Solanke offers a similar profile to Sesko, and the Gunners may be able to trigger an unusual release clause in his contract.
However, Arteta’s priority has now moved to another part of the pitch altogether.
Arsenal turn attention to Declan Rice partner after Benjamin Sesko disappointment
As reported by The Athletic: “Arsenal are not too perturbed by Sesko’s decision to stay in Germany. They knew it was a strong possibility…The club are expected to shift to strengthening their midfield. They need a player to complement Declan Rice, and now potentially have greater resources to allocate to that search.”
It is vital that more support is offered to Declan Rice in the middle of the park next season. With Mohamed Elneny having left the club, Jorginho in the latter stages of his career, and Arsenal actively trying to move Thomas Partey on, there is set to be a dearth of depth beyond the former West Ham United man.
Arsenal must consider Joao Palhinha or Bruno Guimaraes
What’s more, the Gunners need to bring in a midfielder who can help to bring the best out of Rice. The Arsenal man has proven himself capable of having an impact at both ends of the pitch. Arteta needs to now bring in a player who can protect the back four, giving the England star license to take up a more advanced role in the team.
One option Arsenal could consider is attempting to hijack Bayern Munich’s move for Joao Palhinha. The Fulham star has proven his quality in the Premier League and offers the attributes that the Gunners ought to be looking for.
Alternatively, Arsenal may formalise their interest in Bruno Guimaraes. Like Rice, the Brazilian is comfortable at the base of the midfield or when operating with a more attacking remit. The versatility that the duo share would allow them to rotate and interchange seamlessly.