Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta favors signing Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak over RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, with reports outlining the only scenario in which the Gunners would make a bid for the former.
One of Arsenal’s key priorities for the summer of 2025 is securing a new striker. The north London club scrambled for reinforcements in the January transfer window after Gabriel Jesus sustained an injury, making a late but unsuccessful bid for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.
With Kai Havertz struggling to reach double figures in Premier League goals this season, Arsenal’s lack of a top-tier striker could cost them the title. Determined to address this issue, the club is set to pursue a new forward in the upcoming transfer window to strengthen their title chances for next season.
TEAMtalk’s transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, recently reported that Newcastle’s Isak is Arsenal’s top target. However, Newcastle are expected to demand at least £120 million for the Swedish international, who has solidified his reputation as one of the Premier League’s best strikers.
While Arsenal also have their eyes on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, the 21-year-old Slovenian striker has a £65 million release clause in his contract.
TBR reports that Arteta has made his preference clear, identifying Isak as his “personal first-choice.” Despite this, Newcastle are reluctant to sell the forward, who has tallied 54 goals and nine assists in 96 matches across all competitions for the Magpies.
Arsenal’s Condition for Pursuing Isak
Although Arteta is eager to bring Isak to the Emirates, Arsenal will not immediately launch a bid once the transfer window opens. According to TBR, the Gunners will only pursue Isak if he declines a new contract with Newcastle.
The Magpies, who are pushing for a top-four finish this season, plan to engage in contract negotiations with Isak at the end of the campaign to secure his future at the club.
Arsenal will also face competition from other major clubs, with Chelsea, Liverpool, and Barcelona all reportedly interested in the Swedish striker.
Other Arsenal Transfer News
Arsenal are preparing to make a move for Real Madrid-bound striker Endrick, with reports suggesting they are ready to offer £50 million (€60m / $62.6m) for the highly-rated Brazilian teenager.
Meanwhile, TEAMtalk’s Ben Jacobs reports that Arsenal remain “cautiously optimistic” about signing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi this summer. While no deal has been finalized, the club is maintaining regular contact with his representatives. The Spanish international’s release clause stands at €60 million (£51m / $62m).
Additionally, Arsenal have been linked with Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike as they continue their search for attacking reinforcements.
In Focus: Alexander Isak vs Benjamin Sesko
The decision between Isak and Sesko could shape Arsenal’s future attack, with Arteta favoring the proven Premier League talent of Isak over the younger, less experienced Sesko. However, financial constraints and competition from rival clubs may ultimately determine who Arsenal can secure.
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