One striker has now emerged as the most likely transfer target in that position for Arsenal to pursue this summer.
Arsenal are set one adding a new goalscorer to their ranks this summer.
The Gunners did want Benjamin Sesko. The Slovenian forward appeared to be at the top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist, but has now ruled himself out of contention for a switch to the Emirates Stadium by committing his future to RB Leipzig.
Due to the 21-year-old’s decision, the North London club must now pivot to other potential targets in that part of the pitch. There are a number of strikers for Arsenal to choose from in this regard, and plenty have been linked with the club.
Dominic Solanke offers a similar profile to Sesko. Meanwhile, Arsenal have been credited with an interest in Victor Osmihen. However, the Napoli forward’s price tag may well be enough to rule him out of contention for a move to the club.
Bologna forward Joshua Zirkzee has also been named in connection with Arsenal, and could now be considered a top target.
Joshua Zirkzee now a priority for Arsenal
That is certainly the position taken by journalist Chris Wheatley. Speaking on Shots!, the reporter claimed: “I would say, at the moment, with that Sesko news…probably Zirkzee is the most likely option, out of those.”
The Serie A club are thought to want £34 million in exchange for Zirkzee, which certainly puts his asking price at the lower end of what is often wanted for in-demand strikers. The 23-year-old has plenty of admirers though, which could see his price tag rise if the Gunners are drawn into a bidding war.
Arsenal will be keeping tabs on Zirkzee at Euro 2024
The Dutchman could also see his value soar if he is able to impress at this summer’s Euros tournament. He has been called up to Ronald Koeman’s squad for the competition late, despite having never been capped at senior international level before.
Zirkzee’s involvement in Germany also means that Arsenal are unlikely to be able to resolve a deal for the player until the tournament is over.
Plenty of players could find themselves in greater demand if they are able to shine at the Euros. Standout performers in the tournament could also influence the Gunners’ own transfer plans, and help them to offload some of their own players who are set to represent their nations.
Arsenal players and transfer targets at Euro 2024
In this week’s episode of Cannon Fire – The Arsenal Insider Podcast, Will Jones and Rahul Lakhani discuss the European Championships. With 11 Arsenal players set to feature at the tournament, the pair debated which players could be fighting for their futures, and which are destined to succeed on the international stage.