The truth behind Arsenal’s striker search as talks continue over top target

Chris Wheatley

The truth behind Arsenal’s striker search as talks continue over top target image

Arsenal's priority forward target for this summer remains Benjamin Sesko, Sporting News understands.

The Gunners are expected to prioritise the addition of a top-level forward this summer, with Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokores also admired by those within the executive team at Emirates Stadium.

It is understood that Sweden international Gyokores was previously assured he could leave the Portuguese side for less than €70 million (£59m), but Sporting are now holding out for a fee closer to €80m (£68m).

Gyokeres, who scored a remarkable 54 goals in 52 appearances last season, is believed to favour a move to Arsenal and is currently embroiled in a stand-off with the club and his agent.

However, the Gunners are also in contact with RB Leipzig over Slovenian striker Sesko, who hit 21 goals in 45 appearances and featured for Slovenia at Euro 2024.

Talks have taken place with the player’s representatives over personal terms, though no formal offer to the Bundesliga side has been made as of yet.

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Who could sign a new contract at Arsenal?

Meanwhile, contract discussions with midfielder Thomas Partey are progressing positively, with a one-year extension on the table.

The Ghanaian has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia and Barcelona, but sources suggest he is leaning towards remaining in Europe for at least another season, in part due to family considerations.

Leandro Trossard’s future remains uncertain, with suggestions that the Belgian winger could allow his current deal to run down as he seeks a significant pay rise.

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Chris Wheatley

Chris Wheatley is a leading football journalist who has spent over a decade covering the Premier League and European football. He is known for breaking exclusive stories and trusted coverage of clubs, players and the transfer market. Over the years, he has interviewed some of the sport’s most influential figures and consistently delivered stories that shape the football conversation.