Top Six Strikers Arsenal Might Sign Instead of Benjamin Sesko

The competition is tough this summer for prolific strikers. So, who can Arsenal sign now Benjamin Sesko is unavailable?
Sporting CP v FC Porto - Final da Taca de Portugal
Sporting CP v FC Porto - Final da Taca de Portugal / Gualter Fatia/GettyImages
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Benjamin Sesko has agreed to extend his stay at RB Leipzig—under improved terms until 2029—and ended speculation over his immediate future after being linked with Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, and several other clubs.

Arsenal were prepared to activate his £55m release clause but the player wants to continue his development at his current club, at least for one more season.

So, what other options are available to Arsenal?

We look at six strikers they might sign this summer to bolster their attack.

01. Viktor Gyökeres [Sporting CP]

Viktor Gyökeres was our top center-forward pick for Arsenal’s dream summer transfer window, just ahead of Sesko, and there he remains. He scored an incredible 43 goals in 50 matches last term, created another 15, and possesses all the attributes to make him the perfect addition to Mikel Arteta’s squad.

02. Alexander Isak [Newcastle United]

In many ways, Isak would be the second coming of Thierry Henry to Arsenal. He wears the number 14 shirt, likes to drift out left and cut inside, and has the talent, skill, pace, and composure. If it were not near impossible to acquire him from the Magpies, he would be first on this list.

03. Joshua Zirkzee [Bologna]

The Dutch forward is not quite as prolific as our first two choices but he is young, talented, and full of potential. Competition for him will be fierce if the Gunners do target him because AC Milan, Juventus, and Manchester United are already interested but he does have a release clause of only £34m.

04. Brian Brobbey [Ajax]

Brobbey was excellent for Ajax last term, scoring 18 goals and making 8 assists in 29 Eredivisie starts. Another young Dutch forward with plenty of potential, he will not need to be rushed into the starting line-up at Arsenal. He can take his time to settle in, and learn Mikel Arteta’s intensive tactical system.

05. Evan Ferguson [Brighton & Hove Albion]

The young Irish striker did not quite reach the heights many thought he might, expectations which made Brighton once value him at £100m. While not many clubs—or any really—will offer such fortune for him, he should still prove to be valuable in the long run if Arsenal can strike the right deal for him.

06. Julián Álvarez [Manchester City]

Álvarez is thought to prefer moving to Real Madrid if he does end up leaving Manchester City this summer. However, there might not be room for him in Ancelotti’s squad—now they have signed Kylian Mbappé, Endrick, and Joselu. It remains to be seen if Arsenal even want him, and if they do, whether City will want to help strengthen their closest rivals once more.