Arsenal are a top side — that much is clear. Mikel Arteta has built a well-drilled, technically gifted team capable of going toe-to-toe with Europe’s best.
But after another season of near misses, including a Champions League semi-final exit and falling short in the title race, the sense remains that something’s missing.
With north London rivals Tottenham Hotspur winning a trophy and Arteta’s wait for more silverware entering its sixth year, there is a case to be made that they are becoming the bridesmaids that they used to taunt Tottenham for – never quite getting over the line.
Injuries have played their part, but so has the lack of a clinical, dependable number nine. Someone who can take the game by the scruff of the neck and support the already talented attack of Bukayo Saka, Gabrielle Martinelli and Kai Havertz.
If Arsenal are to go one better next season, they’ll need to spend — and they’ve got the funds to do it. With the squad already costing over £800 million to assemble, the pressure is now on to deliver silverware. The free bets market has them as contenders, but without a reliable striker, they risk being seen as nearly men once again. Here are three forwards who could change that.
Alexander Isak – Newcastle United
Alexander Isak remains Arteta’s “ideal target,” according to David Ornstein, and it’s easy to see why. Isak’s ability to create space in tight areas, his explosive pace, and clinical finishing technique represent everything Arsenal’s attack currently lacks.
The 25-year-old scored 21 Premier League goals last season and has consistently troubled Arsenal’s defence, helping Newcastle secure three victories over the Gunners this season. His capacity to break games open with moments of individual brilliance is precisely what separates good teams from great ones.
The challenge? Newcastle are reportedly unwilling to sanction his departure for less than £120 million, potentially pricing Arsenal out of a move. With Newcastle qualifying for the Champions League, it’s an ambitious transfer that is unlikely to come to fruition.
Viktor Gyökeres – Sporting CP
Sporting ‘s Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres has emerged as a genuine alternative to his compatriot Isak, with Arsenal reportedly setting their sights on the 26-year-old who would cost around £59 million – significantly less than Isak’s price tag to bring the forward from Lisbon to London.
Arsenal have reportedly verbally agreed personal terms with Gyökeres despite competition from several other suitors, including Chelsea and Manchester United. His combination of physicality, intelligent movement, and composure in front of goal has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers.
Having thrived in Portugal’s top flight, finishing with 54 goals in all competitions, Gyökeres represents the goldilocks option – experienced enough to hit the ground running, young enough for long-term value, and affordable enough to leave budget for additional reinforcements.
Benjamin Sesko – RB Leipzig
RB Leipzig’s Slovenian star Benjamin Sesko remains a long-term Arsenal target after the club moved very early for him in summer 2024, attempting to trigger his £55 million release clause before he signed a new contract without a release clause.
Despite staying in the Bundesliga for further development, Sesko has reportedly favoured Arsenal above other suitors. At just 21, he offers the kind of long-term investment Arsenal have built their recent success on.
While he may need time to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, Sesko’s pace, power, and finishing ability suggest he has the tools to develop into a world-class striker under Arteta’s guidance.
Beyond the headline targets, there’s also Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike. Once tipped for stardom in Paris, the Frenchman has reinvented himself in the Bundesliga, scoring 22 goals in all competitions this season. At around £60 million, he represents a middle ground between the budget options and premium targets, though Frankfurt are hoping he stays on the Main River.