Arsenal have reportedly ‘set a crucial deadline’ in their pursuit of a new striker, as they aim to finalize a deal swiftly in the coming days. The Gunners are under pressure to make a strong statement this summer after yet another season of near-misses in the Premier League and a trophy drought that continues to haunt them.
The North London club finished second in the league for the third consecutive year in the 2024/25 campaign, falling short of their lofty ambitions. With the transfer window now in full swing, Arsenal are working overtime to bolster their squad. Kepa Arrizabalaga has already been secured, and the arrivals of Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, and Cristhian Mosquera are said to be close.
While these signings will undoubtedly strengthen Mikel Arteta’s side, the primary focus remains on revamping their attack. Last season’s struggles in the forward positions exposed a glaring need for a prolific goal-scorer, and Arsenal are leaving no stone unturned in their search.
It’s no secret that the Gunners are targeting a top-tier striker after missing out on Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins last season. Additionally, they are on the hunt for a winger and an attacking midfielder to add depth and creativity to their frontline.
Sesko and Watkins remain on Arsenal’s radar, but another name that has emerged as a prime candidate is Viktor Gyokeres. The Sporting Lisbon star, who ranks second in Europe’s top scorers list, has reportedly caught Arteta’s eye as a potential game-changer.
Recent reports suggest that Sesko and Gyokeres are Arsenal’s top priorities, but negotiations have been anything but straightforward. Journalist Rudy Galetti, writing for TEAMtalk, reveals that the Gunners have set a ‘key deadline’ of mid-July to reach an agreement for Sesko. However, a significant hurdle remains: a £20 million gap in valuation between Arsenal and RB Leipzig.
‘RB Leipzig are holding firm on their £80 million valuation for Sesko, showing little willingness to lower the price despite the player’s desire to move to England. Arsenal, on the other hand, are adamant about not exceeding £60 million. While the gap is substantial, talks between the two clubs are ongoing,’ the report states.
Meanwhile, Gyokeres appears to be inching closer to a move to the Emirates. According to Caught Offside, the Swedish striker has ‘chosen’ Arsenal as his ‘next destination,’ with Arteta playing a pivotal role in convincing him. The Gunners’ manager reportedly outlined a clear vision of Gyokeres’ role in the club’s long-term project, emphasizing the opportunity to compete in the Champions League.
‘Gyokeres was swayed by Arteta’s promise of a central role in Arsenal’s attacking plans. Despite more lucrative offers from other clubs, the chance to join the Gunners and compete at the highest level proved irresistible,’ the report adds.
While Gyokeres seems eager to make the move, Sporting Lisbon’s £70 million valuation remains a stumbling block. Arsenal will need to find common ground with the Portuguese side to secure their man.
As the clock ticks down to their self-imposed deadline, Arsenal fans will be hoping for a breakthrough in their pursuit of a marquee striker. The coming weeks could define the Gunners’ chances of ending their trophy drought and challenging for the Premier League title next season.
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