Last year, Arsenal made waves in the football world by breaking the British transfer record to sign Declan Rice. Alongside Rice, the club also brought in Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber, and David Raya as part of an ambitious summer transfer window. However, the approach for the upcoming summer transfer window is expected to differ significantly. With the 2024/25 season on the horizon, Arsenal are prioritizing reinforcements in key areas, particularly targeting a new striker and midfielder to bolster their squad and sustain their Premier League title challenge.
Sporting director Edu Gaspar will once again play a pivotal role in shaping the team’s prospects. Among Arsenal’s transfer targets, Benjamin Sesko has emerged as the leading candidate for the striker position. The club’s interest in securing a forward has been well-documented, with other notable names like Ivan Toney and Alexander Isak also linked. However, Sesko remains the priority for the Gunners.
According to *The Mirror*, Sesko is reportedly keen on a move to the Emirates, preferring Arsenal over other interested clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United, and several Italian teams. His agent, Elvis Basanovic, has been spotted at Arsenal matches this season, further fueling speculation. It is believed that Arsenal are determined to sign Sesko and are exploring ways to negotiate his £45 million release clause.
Football.london notes that Sesko’s profile is a smart fit for Arsenal’s needs. While he has not been a consistent starter at RB Leipzig, often playing second fiddle to Lois Openda, Sesko’s physical attributes and finishing ability make him an attractive option. At just 20 years old, he represents a long-term investment, allowing Mikel Arteta to mold him into the striker Arsenal require. The decision to target a young, less-established forward like Sesko instead of pursuing a high-profile name like Victor Osimhen is seen as a calculated and potentially cost-effective strategy.
Arsenal are also linked with Feyenoord left-back Quilindschy Hartman, raising questions about Oleksandr Zinchenko’s future. Reports suggest Bayern Munich, under their new manager Vincent Kompany, is interested in reuniting Kompany with Zinchenko, who worked with him at Manchester City. Injuries and inconsistent form have marred Zinchenko’s recent season, opening the door for players like Jakub Kiwior and Takehiro Tomiyasu to step up.
Zinchenko was instrumental in Arsenal’s leap from fifth to second in his debut season, but his struggles last season may prompt Arsenal to consider selling. Bayern’s interest could benefit both parties, especially if Arsenal can recoup the £32 million they paid for him, though the outcome may hinge on Alphonso Davies’ future at Bayern.
