LIVE UPDATE 🚨 Mikel Arteta has identified four transfer targets as Arsenal aim to prevent summer setbacks. The Gunners are preparing to enter the transfer market in search of a striker, with Arteta determined to address the team’s most pressing issue before the 2023/24 season kicks off.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is bracing for a busy summer transfer window as the club looks to address its long-standing issue of lacking a true number nine. The absence of a prolific striker has been a major talking point, with Alan Shearer criticizing the club for failing to strengthen this area earlier. He believes that their reluctance to secure a centre forward has now left them vulnerable to paying inflated transfer fees, which he describes as a significant mistake.

 

Adding to the criticism, Gary Neville has suggested that Arsenal may regret signing Raheem Sterling last summer. According to him, the acquisition has not had the desired impact and has ultimately limited the club’s ability to make moves in the January transfer window. His remarks reflect the broader concerns that Arsenal’s squad depth has been inadequate in key areas, particularly in attack.

 

The team’s title hopes have also been hindered by injuries to key players such as Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Martinelli, and Gabriel Jesus. These setbacks have further exposed the club’s need for reinforcements in the attacking department. With the season nearing its conclusion, Arsenal is expected to prioritize signing a top-quality striker to avoid a repeat of their struggles.

 

One of the main targets on their radar is Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, who is reportedly open to a move to the Premier League. The potential transfer fee for the young forward is believed to be around £55 million, making him a viable option for Arsenal as they seek a long-term solution to their striker dilemma.

 

Another potential signing is Alexander Isak, who has impressed at Newcastle United. His Premier League experience makes him an attractive option, but securing his services might depend on Newcastle’s final league position. If the Magpies qualify for the Champions League, it could make it more difficult for Arsenal to lure him away from St. James’ Park.

 

Newcastle has maintained that they are not under financial pressure to sell, even if they fail to finish in the top five. However, the situation could change if multiple clubs express interest in Isak. Meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres is also on Arsenal’s radar, though his connection with Ruben Amorim at Sporting CP could make Manchester United a more likely destination for the Swedish striker.

 

Ollie Watkins was another player Arsenal attempted to sign during the winter transfer window, but Aston Villa rejected their late bid. It remains uncertain whether Arsenal will revisit their interest in the England international this summer. However, with Watkins turning 30 soon, the club may prefer a younger forward to build their future attack around.

 

Alan Shearer believes Arsenal will face significant challenges in signing a striker, as selling clubs will demand high fees due to their evident need. He acknowledges Arteta’s talent as a manager and does not see him under immediate pressure, but he insists that Arsenal must secure a world-class centre forward before the next season begins. According to Shearer, the scarcity of top strikers means that any potential transfer will come at a premium, making Arsenal’s summer recruitment a crucial test for the club.