Arsenal’s effort to secure a top-tier striker has been central to Mikel Arteta’s recruitment plans, with Alexander Isak of Newcastle United frequently named as the preferred choice. His mix of speed, skill, and precise finishing—backed by 22 goals in 32 appearances this term—makes him a seamless fit in Arteta’s setup.
But with Newcastle reportedly seeking between £130-150 million and unwilling to part ways with their star, especially if they secure a Champions League spot, Arsenal might be forced to consider alternatives. Fortunately, the club is linked with several notable forwards who could revitalize their attack in the 2025/26 campaign. Here, we assess three key alternatives—Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, and Victor Osimhen—should talks for Isak stall.
Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig has come forward as a leading option for Arsenal, with some reports indicating he’s Arteta’s favored backup. The 21-year-old Slovenian has been on Arsenal’s watchlist since last year, when a move was attempted before he chose to remain with Leipzig. Despite signing a contract extension, Arsenal are still interested, with belief in a “gentleman’s agreement” that could enable a move for around £62 million in summer 2025—a much more accessible amount than what’s required for Isak.
Sesko’s tally of 14 goals and three assists from 27 games this season shows his sharp finishing and positional adaptability. At 6’4”, he blends strength and agility, causing problems for defenses. He can function as a classic striker or shift into wider areas, aligning with Arteta’s preference for fluid forwards. Posts on X have highlighted Arsenal’s ongoing interest, with some stating that Sesko is the “number one striker target” for the upcoming window.
Convincing Sesko of consistent playing time remains a hurdle—something that reportedly hampered last summer’s talks. Yet with Gabriel Jesus out due to an ACL issue and Kai Havertz struggling for goals, Sesko might view Arsenal as an ideal platform to shine in the Premier League. His youth, ceiling, and more modest fee make him an ideal addition for a club trying to stay within Financial Fair Play rules while chasing top honors.
While Sesko offers potential, Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP brings established scoring credentials. The 27-year-old Swede has flourished in Portugal, with several posts on X suggesting Arsenal regard him as a key target alongside Sesko following Newcastle’s hardline position on Isak. A fee between £59-70 million puts him in a more reasonable range compared to the Newcastle forward.
Gyokeres has scored an impressive 90 goals across the past two seasons, underlining his ability to overpower defenses with speed, strength, and composure. Though there’s debate over how well his performance in Portugal will transfer to the Premier League’s intensity, his physical tools and stamina suggest he could adjust swiftly. Arsenal’s new sporting director, Andrea Berta, is said to be an admirer, and Gyokeres’ openness to an English move could give Arsenal the edge over competitors like Chelsea and Manchester United.
His capacity to play both centrally and out wide fits Arteta’s flexible front-line approach. Arsenal may be cautious about his age and transition from a weaker league, as some sources have noted. Still, his goal return and affordable price make him a viable Plan B if Isak proves unobtainable.
For a more high-profile acquisition, Arsenal might look at Victor Osimhen of Napoli, a long-standing interest. The 26-year-old Nigerian striker, currently loaned to Galatasaray, could be signed for roughly £55 million—a relative bargain compared to Isak. His 26 goals during Napoli’s 2022/23 championship-winning run, along with consistent showings in Serie A and Europe, confirm his pedigree as a leading striker.
Osimhen’s strength, aerial ability, and relentless energy make him well-suited for English football. Eager to return to a top league and linked with Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United, he’s an attractive target. Yet, reports indicate Osimhen might lean towards Juventus, potentially complicating matters. Arsenal’s clear need for a classic No. 9—especially with Jesus injured and Havertz fitting better in a mixed role—might tip the scales.
His injury record and adaptation to England’s pace are concerns, but his top-level experience and potential to “add a different dimension of threat,” as some transfer experts say, make him a high-risk, high-reward prospect if a deal can be struck.
Arsenal’s hunt for a new striker is fueled by the need to bridge the gap to rivals like Liverpool, who’ve surged ahead in this season’s title race. Injuries to Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli have further exposed their need for more firepower. Arteta’s emphasis on signing players who can “immediately impact our performance” reflects a strategy focused on quality signings.
Budget-wise, Arsenal must tread carefully. A £150 million outlay for Isak could hamper efforts to also bring in a creative winger (such as Nico Williams) or a midfield replacement for Thomas Partey or Jorginho. Sesko and Gyokeres present cost-effective options that allow broader squad reinforcement, while Osimhen fits within Arsenal’s supposed willingness to invest heavily in a top forward. Offloading players like Aaron Ramsdale, Takehiro Tomiyasu, or Jesus could further expand their funds.
If Isak proves too costly, Sesko stands out as the most promising and practical recruit. His youth, potential, and £62 million fee suit Arsenal’s financial strategy and long-term planning. Gyokeres offers immediate returns, though concerns about his transition persist. Osimhen, though an exciting name, poses risks due to injuries and possible preference for Juventus.
In the end, the decision will come down to Arteta’s tactical preferences and Berta’s effectiveness in the market. With his balance of promise and value, Sesko appears best suited to spearhead Arsenal’s frontline next season and push the club toward true title contention.
