Arsenal’s Striker Search: Top Alternatives if Alexander Isak Deal Falls Through

Arsenal’s pursuit of a marquee striker has been one of the dominant stories heading into the 2025 summer transfer window. Mikel Arteta has made it clear: adding a prolific No. 9 is essential if the Gunners are to mount a serious title challenge next season. Among all possible targets, Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak has emerged as Arsenal’s dream signing.

Isak’s combination of blistering pace, technical brilliance, and lethal finishing ability has seen him score 22 goals in just 32 appearances across all competitions this season. His profile fits seamlessly into Arteta’s tactical blueprint — a striker who can stretch defenses, link up play, and finish clinically inside the box.

However, negotiations with Newcastle appear complicated. Reports suggest the Magpies are demanding a staggering fee in the range of £130-£150 million for their prized asset. Furthermore, if Newcastle secures Champions League football again, they would be even more reluctant to part ways with Isak, a player they see as central to their ambitions.

Faced with these financial and competitive hurdles, Arsenal may be forced to explore alternative options. Fortunately, the club has already laid the groundwork by scouting several highly rated forwards who could reshape their frontline if the Isak deal collapses.

One name that continues to gain momentum is Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig. Arsenal have been monitoring the 21-year-old Slovenian sensation since last summer and remain keen on bringing him to the Emirates. According to reports, Sesko is now Mikel Arteta’s top alternative to Isak.

Standing at an imposing 6’4″, Sesko combines physicality with surprising agility, making him a nightmare matchup for defenders. In 27 appearances this season, he has scored 14 goals and provided three assists — an impressive return for such a young player still refining his game at the top level.

What makes Sesko particularly appealing to Arsenal is his rumored “gentleman’s agreement” with Leipzig. It is believed that a bid of around £62 million could trigger his release, a significantly more affordable option than the price quoted for Isak. Arsenal view this as a rare opportunity to secure a generational talent without blowing their entire summer budget.

The primary concern for Arsenal in pursuing Sesko revolves around guaranteed playing time. Last summer, Sesko reportedly turned down interest from England due to worries about minutes. However, with Gabriel Jesus struggling with injuries and Kai Havertz inconsistent in front of goal, there is now a clearer pathway for Sesko to establish himself as Arsenal’s main man.

Another option that Arsenal are seriously considering is Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP. The Swedish international has been nothing short of spectacular since moving to Portugal, and his performances have caught the eye of many top clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United.

Gyokeres’ price tag, estimated between £59 million and £70 million, is another major point in his favor. Compared to the astronomical sums associated with Isak, Gyokeres represents a financially sensible alternative for Arsenal as they navigate the ever-watchful eye of Financial Fair Play regulations.

Over the past two seasons, Gyokeres has scored an astonishing 90 goals in all competitions. His blend of speed, power, and clinical finishing makes him a terrifying prospect for defenders. Moreover, his ability to operate both centrally and in wider attacking roles suits Arteta’s preference for versatile forwards.

However, there are some reservations. Critics argue that excelling in the Primeira Liga does not necessarily guarantee success in the Premier League. The English top flight’s physical and tactical demands are a significant step up, and not every player adapts seamlessly.

Despite these concerns, Arsenal’s newly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly a huge admirer of Gyokeres. His endorsement, combined with the striker’s strong desire to move to England, could make negotiations smoother if the Gunners decide to prioritize him.

If Arsenal wish to make a truly blockbuster signing, they might turn their attention to Victor Osimhen. The Nigerian striker, known for his explosive pace, strength, and aerial dominance, has long been admired by top clubs across Europe, including Arsenal.

Although currently on loan at Galatasaray, Osimhen’s rights are still tied to Napoli, and he could be available for a cut-price fee of around £55 million. Given his pedigree — 26 goals during Napoli’s historic 2022/23 Serie A title-winning season — Osimhen would bring star power and proven goal-scoring to the Emirates.

Osimhen’s attributes seem tailor-made for the Premier League. His aggressive pressing, fearless attacking runs, and physical resilience would immediately boost Arsenal’s frontline. Nevertheless, Arsenal are not alone in their admiration, with Chelsea and Manchester United also circling.

One complicating factor is Osimhen’s rumored preference for a move to Juventus. Should the Turin giants make a move, Arsenal may find themselves embroiled in a fierce bidding war, which could drive the price higher and test their resolve.

Injuries also loom as a concern. Osimhen has had his fair share of setbacks, including muscular injuries that sidelined him for chunks of previous campaigns. Yet when fit, he is a game-changer — a player capable of deciding matches single-handedly.

Arsenal’s pressing need for a striker has only been amplified by a turbulent 2024/25 season. Injuries to key players like Gabriel Jesus, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli exposed the thinness of Arteta’s attacking options, especially during crucial stretches of the campaign.

Arteta has made no secret of the fact that he desires players who can “immediately impact our performance.” The striker they bring in must be ready to deliver from day one, not merely serve as a project for the future.

From a financial perspective, splashing £150 million on Isak could severely limit Arsenal’s ability to strengthen in other areas. Reinforcements are needed not just up front, but also on the wings and possibly in midfield, with players like Thomas Partey and Jorginho nearing the end of their Arsenal tenures.

A move for Sesko or Gyokeres would allow Arsenal to spread their resources more effectively across the squad. Both would cost less than half of Isak’s fee, freeing up funds to chase other targets such as Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams or a defensive midfielder to bolster depth.

Arsenal could also generate additional funds through player sales. The likes of Aaron Ramsdale, Takehiro Tomiyasu, and even Gabriel Jesus could be moved on if suitable offers arrive, providing further flexibility in the transfer market.

Ultimately, while Alexander Isak remains the priority, Arsenal must be pragmatic. Benjamin Sesko appears to offer the perfect balance of talent, upside, and affordability. Viktor Gyokeres provides a more seasoned, goal-scoring option. Victor Osimhen, though riskier, could be a headline-grabbing coup.

As the summer approaches, all eyes will be on Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta. Their ability to navigate these complex negotiations could very well define Arsenal’s trajectory not just for next season, but for years to come.

If the right striker is secured, Arsenal fans could finally dream of seeing their club back at the summit of English football.

---