Arsenal’s ongoing struggles due to the lack of a true number nine have once again come under scrutiny. Alan Shearer has been particularly vocal about the club’s failure to reinforce the centre-forward position, calling it a significant mistake that will now force them to pay inflated transfer fees. He believes this miscalculation could severely impact their ambitions moving forward.
At the same time, Gary Neville has questioned the club’s decision to sign Raheem Sterling last summer, arguing that the move has not provided the expected benefits. He suggests that this signing may have limited Arsenal’s ability to make necessary adjustments during the January transfer window, leaving them vulnerable at a crucial stage of the season.
Injuries to key players, including Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus, have further weakened Arsenal’s title chances this season. Given these setbacks, the club is widely expected to make major moves in the summer transfer market, particularly in their pursuit of a reliable striker to address their attacking shortcomings.
Among the leading candidates for Arsenal’s striking reinforcement is Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. Reports indicate that the club is considering a £55 million bid for the young forward, who is reportedly eager to test himself in the Premier League. His physical attributes and goal-scoring ability make him an attractive prospect for Mikel Arteta.
Another potential target is Alexander Isak, who has been making a strong impression at Newcastle United. However, securing his services may depend on Newcastle’s final league position. If they secure a Champions League spot, the chances of Isak leaving St James’ Park could be slim, as he would likely prefer to remain in a team competing at Europe’s highest level.
Despite Newcastle’s firm stance on keeping Isak, interest from multiple clubs could test their resolve, especially if they fail to secure a top-five finish. Viktor Gyokeres is another striker on Arsenal’s radar, but his strong ties with Ruben Amorim suggest he could be more inclined to join Manchester United, who are also in urgent need of a striker.
Arsenal previously made a late bid for Ollie Watkins in the winter transfer window, but Aston Villa rejected the offer. Given Villa’s reaction to the initial bid, it remains uncertain whether Arsenal will make another approach in the summer. Additionally, with Watkins turning 30 later this year, Arsenal might prefer to invest in a younger option for the long term.
Shearer has emphasized that Arsenal’s urgent need for a striker puts them in a difficult negotiating position. He believes clubs will demand a premium fee, knowing Arsenal’s desperation. While Arteta is not under immediate pressure, Shearer suggests that by next season, Arsenal will have no choice but to bring in a world-class centre-forward—an expensive but necessary investment for their title ambitions.
Leave a Reply