The message from Fabrizio Romano is clear: while Arsenal are moving aggressively, no deal is done yet — and fans should temper their excitement with patience
Sesko remains a top target, but Gyokeres is not far behind. Both offer different tactical benefits, and both would significantly enhance Arsenal’s attacking options.
What’s certain is that Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar are intent on continuing the club’s upward trajectory. With a smart transfer window, Arsenal could be well-positioned to finally bring the Premier League title back to North London.
In the modern game, finding the right striker can be the difference between silverware and another season of near misses. Ray Parlour’s backing of Benjamin Sesko is a nod toward vision, development, and faith in Arteta’s ability to mold talent.
Whether Arsenal take that route or opt for the ready-made excellence of Viktor Gyokeres, the upcoming transfer window promises to be a pivotal moment in their journey back to the top.
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Ray Parlour Endorses Sesko Over Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal’s need for a quality striker has never been more urgent.1
Following a season filled with promise but ultimately ending in frustration due to missed chances and key injuries, the Gunners enter the summer transfer window in pursuit of a clinical forward.
Club legend Ray Parlour has weighed in on the debate, advocating for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko over Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres.
Both forwards offer intriguing profiles, and while Gyokeres boasts incredible statistics in Portugal, Parlour believes Sesko’s age, physicality, and potential make him a better long-term investment for Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Arsenal Striker Dilemma: A Season Undone by Missed Opportunities
Arsenal mounted a strong Premier League title challenge last season, staying neck and neck with Manchester City for much of the campaign.
However, their lack of a traditional, clinical centre-forward proved costly when it mattered most.
Gabriel Jesus struggled with recurring injuries, Kai Havertz was often deployed in unfamiliar roles, and while Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard contributed, neither could offer the reliable No.9 presence the team sorely lacked.
Arsenal created more big chances than most Premier League teams but failed to convert enough of them.
The Gunners’ expected goals (xG) often far outstripped actual goals scored, particularly in matches where they dropped crucial points. That inefficiency up front is a key reason why a new striker has become Arteta’s top transfer priority.
Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko: Introducing the Candidates
Two names have repeatedly surfaced in discussions surrounding Arsenal’s summer striker pursuit: Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko.2
Gyokeres has been a revelation at Sporting CP. Since his move from Coventry City in 2023, the Swedish striker has posted jaw-dropping numbers — 97 goals and 28 assists in 102 appearances.
His strength, composure in front of goal, and work rate have made him one of Europe’s hottest properties. Already accustomed to English football from his time in the Championship, Gyokeres is seen as a plug-and-play option for any Premier League side.
Sesko, on the other hand, has enjoyed a steady rise at RB Leipzig after moving from Red Bull Salzburg. At just 21, the Slovenian has scored 39 goals and added eight assists in 87 games.
His raw attributes — pace, power, aerial threat, and direct dribbling — have drawn comparisons to a young Erling Haaland. While his stats may not match Gyokeres’, his ceiling arguably exceeds it.
Ray Parlour’s Verdict: Why He Chooses Sesko
Ray Parlour, a three-time Premier League winner with Arsenal, recently shared his thoughts on the striker dilemma in an interview with Give Me Sport. While acknowledging Gyokeres’ stellar form, he leaned toward Sesko for several reasons.
“He is very quick and strong, so he could fit into the Premier League,” Parlour said. “He is only 21 as well, so you can probably coach him… From an Arsenal point of view, I would probably go for Sesko.”
Parlour’s rationale centers around the idea of potential and development. In contrast to Gyokeres, who is already 26 and arguably at his peak, Sesko offers Arsenal a long-term solution. Under Arteta’s guidance — a manager known for refining young talent — Sesko could evolve into one of the world’s most feared strikers.
Youth and Adaptability: The Case for Benjamin Sesko
One of Sesko’s biggest advantages is his age. At 21, he fits perfectly into Arsenal’s strategy of building a young, dynamic core.
The Gunners already boast a youthful squad featuring the likes of Saka, Martin Ødegaard, William Saliba, and Declan Rice. Adding another rising star to this foundation would be a logical step forward.
Moreover, Sesko’s playing style is well-suited to the Premier League. He thrives in fast-paced transitions, is dominant in aerial duels, and has an explosive first touch. These traits could make him a natural fit in Arteta’s system, which often relies on vertical runs, quick interchanges, and sharp pressing.
Though raw in some areas — particularly decision-making and consistency — his potential is undeniable. With proper coaching, Sesko could become a complete striker in just a few years.
Viktor Gyokeres: The Tempting Finished Product
While Parlour favors Sesko, Gyokeres’ resume is difficult to ignore. Scoring 97 goals in 102 games in any top-flight league is a remarkable feat.3
He has proven his ability to carry a team, lead a front line, and deliver in clutch moments.
Gyokeres is not just a scorer; he’s also a creator. His 28 assists for Sporting CP reflect his versatility and link-up play.
At 6’2”, he’s a physical presence but also agile enough to beat defenders off the dribble. In many ways, he appears to be the complete modern striker.
For Arsenal, who need someone ready to hit the ground running, Gyokeres might represent the safer option. He has fewer question marks than Sesko and brings a proven, reliable skill set.
Arteta’s Tactical Vision: Who Fits Better?
Mikel Arteta’s system is intricate and evolving. While the team often lines up in a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, positional play and fluidity are at the heart of Arsenal’s attacking approach. The striker is expected to press aggressively, link with midfielders, and stretch defenses.
Sesko’s movement, pace, and ability to operate in wide areas could give Arteta more flexibility. He could rotate with Havertz and even play alongside Gabriel Jesus in a dual-striker system if needed.
Gyokeres, by contrast, would be the undisputed spearhead — a traditional No.9 capable of holding the ball, drawing fouls, and creating space for wide players. In tight games where goals are needed from direct play, Gyokeres might offer more immediate solutions.
Financial Factors: Who Offers Better Value?
Both Sesko and Gyokeres would require significant investment. Sesko reportedly has a release clause of around €65 million, while Gyokeres could command upwards of €80 million due to his sensational form and contract situation.
From a financial standpoint, Sesko appears to be the better value. His lower fee, combined with long-term resale potential, aligns with Arsenal’s transfer model.
Edu and Arteta have previously targeted high-upside players like Martinelli, Saliba, and Trossard, and Sesko fits that mold.
However, with Champions League football and increased revenue streams, Arsenal might be more willing than ever to make a marquee signing — even if it means splashing the cash on Gyokeres.
What Should Arsenal Do? Final Thoughts
Arsenal stand at a crossroads. With a title-challenging squad already in place, the addition of a top-tier striker could finally elevate them above Manchester City and into Premier League dominance.
The debate between Sesko and Gyokeres is emblematic of a larger philosophical question: do you prioritize potential or proven performance?
Ray Parlour’s endorsement of Sesko reveals a belief in building for the future, trusting Arteta’s process, and nurturing talent. Sesko might not offer the instant impact of Gyokeres, but he could become Arsenal’s star forward for the next decade.
Whichever route Arsenal choose, one thing is certain: this summer’s striker signing could define the club’s trajectory for years to come.
Viktor Gyokeres: A Strong Plan B or a Co-Target?
While Sesko is the primary target, Romano confirmed that Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is still a “strong option” on Arsenal’s shortlist.
Gyokeres, a Swedish international, has enjoyed a sensational season in Portugal, scoring over 40 goals across all competitions. His stock has risen dramatically, and he has been linked with several Premier League clubs.
Romano stated: “We have to see what happens with Sesko. We have to remember that Viktor Gyokeres remains a strong option in the list.”
Gyokeres is more of a physical, traditional striker than Sesko, but he’s also incredibly mobile and aggressive in the press — two traits that align well with Arteta’s playing philosophy.
While his release clause is reportedly in the region of €100 million, Arsenal may negotiate a structure involving add-ons and installments to bring the cost down.
Comparing Sesko and Gyokeres
Though both Sesko and Gyokeres are centre-forwards, their styles offer different tactical advantages. Sesko is arguably more versatile in open-play situations.
His ability to drift wide and connect with wingers like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli could open up space in the box.
Gyokeres, on the other hand, is a more direct striker who thrives on quick transitions and physical battles with centre-backs. He could offer Arsenal a more immediate solution — someone who is already playing at his peak and used to carrying an attack.
Arteta’s decision may ultimately come down to what he values more: Sesko’s long-term potential or Gyokeres’ proven impact.
Viktor Gyokeres: Financial Implications
Can Arsenal Afford Both?
It’s no secret that Arsenal have ambitions of becoming a perennial title contender, but their spending power is still somewhat constrained by Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations.
Pursuing both Sesko and Gyokeres would require a significant outlay — likely in excess of £150 million combined.
That’s why the club is also exploring player sales to balance the books. The futures of players like Emile Smith Rowe, Eddie Nketiah, and Kieran Tierney remain uncertain.
If Arsenal can raise funds through smart sales, they could have more flexibility to push forward with big-money transfers.
It’s also possible that Arsenal are playing the market — keeping both striker options alive to leverage negotiations and drive down prices.
Beyond the Strikers: Arsenal Eye Zubimendi and Rodrygo
While the hunt for a striker grabs headlines, Arsenal’s summer strategy isn’t limited to the frontline. According to various reports, the Gunners are also keen on bringing in Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and Real Madrid winger Rodrygo.
Zubimendi is being considered as a long-term successor to Thomas Partey, who could be on his way out this summer. The Spanish midfielder is a calm presence at the base of midfield, renowned for his ability to dictate tempo and maintain possession under pressure. His release clause is believed to be around €60 million.
Rodrygo, on the other hand, is a more speculative target. The Brazilian winger has enjoyed success at Real Madrid but could become surplus to requirements depending on Kylian Mbappé’s arrival and Endrick’s development.
If Madrid decide to cash in, Arsenal could pounce — although it would require an enormous financial commitment.
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Arsenal’s Strategy: Youth, Versatility, and Depth
Arsenal’s pursuit of Sesko, Gyokeres, Zubimendi, and Rodrygo reflects a clear trend: the club wants to sign players entering their prime or with the potential to become elite.
They are targeting individuals who are tactically intelligent, technically skilled, and versatile enough to adapt across multiple positions.
This is no coincidence. Last season exposed Arsenal’s thin squad depth during crucial stages. Injuries to key players like Jurrien Timber, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and Thomas Partey forced Arteta to rely heavily on a core group of starters.
To compete with Manchester City and Liverpool over a 60-game season, Arsenal need a deeper, more flexible squad.
The Clock is Ticking: What Comes Next?
The Premier League summer transfer window officially opens on June 14, but the groundwork for deals is already well underway.
Arsenal are hoping to finalize at least one marquee signing early to give Arteta a full pre-season with new additions.
Whether it’s Sesko, Gyokeres, or a surprise third candidate, Arsenal will not rush. The club wants to avoid paying over the odds, especially in a summer where the striker market is inflated.
The Sesko saga, in particular, could take a few more weeks to resolve as Leipzig consider offers and the player weighs his options.
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