BREAKING NEWS: Osimhen, Gyokeres, Isak or Sesko? Arteta and Berta Disagree on Arsenal’s Best Centre-Forward Solution

Arsenal’s summer transfer plans have hit an intriguing crossroads as manager Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly hold differing views on how to solve the club’s striker dilemma. With the Gunners determined to finally land an elite number nine, tensions are emerging over whether to pursue Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, or RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

The Great Striker Debate

Sources close to the club reveal that while Arteta remains fixated on Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Berta has identified Gyokeres as his preferred target. The disagreement highlights the complex balancing act between immediate impact and long-term value that Arsenal must navigate this summer.

Berta’s Choice: Viktor Gyokeres

The Swedish striker has become one of Europe’s most prolific forwards since joining Sporting CP, netting 30 goals in just 26 league appearances this season. Berta, who previously worked at Atletico Madrid, is said to be enamored with Gyokeres’ physicality, finishing, and ability to lead the line—qualities Arsenal have lacked since the days of Olivier Giroud.

Arteta’s Favorite: Alexander Isak

Arteta, however, is pushing hard for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, whose Premier League-proven quality and stylistic fit make him the ideal candidate in the Spaniard’s eyes. The problem? Newcastle have no intention of selling unless a mammoth offer—likely exceeding £100 million—comes in.

The Osimhen Wildcard

Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, currently on loan at Galatasaray, remains an outside option. Though Arsenal have monitored him for years, his inconsistent form and hefty wage demands have cooled their interest.

The Affordable Alternative: Benjamin Sesko

RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko represents a more budget-friendly option, but with multiple clubs circling, Arsenal may need to act fast. At just 21, he offers long-term upside but may not be the immediate difference-maker Arteta desires.

Why the Striker Search is Urgent

Injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have left Arsenal dangerously thin up front, forcing midfielder Mikel Merino into a makeshift striker role at times. The lack of a clinical finisher has cost them crucial points in the title race, making this summer’s recruitment pivotal.

Gyokeres’ Appeal: Ready-Made Solution

Gyokeres’ 85 goals in 92 games for Sporting and Coventry suggest he could hit the ground running in the Premier League. His €100 million release clause, while steep, may still be cheaper than Isak.

Isak’s Premier League Pedigree

Isak’s 20+ goal season at Newcastle proves he can thrive in England. However, prising him away from St. James’ Park would require a British record fee—something Arsenal’s hierarchy is hesitant to sanction.

Osimhen’s Unpredictability

Osimhen remains a world-class talent, but his injury history and Napoli’s tough negotiating stance complicate matters. Arsenal may prefer a safer investment.

Sesko: The Future Star?

Sesko’s potential is undeniable, but at 21, he would be a project rather than an instant fix. With Arsenal in win-now mode, this might not align with Arteta’s vision.

Financial Constraints Loom Large

FFP considerations mean Arsenal cannot afford to overspend. Gyokeres’ slightly lower price tag (compared to Isak) could give Berta the upper hand in internal discussions.

The Deciding Factor: Champions League Football

If Arsenal secure a top-four finish, their budget and pulling power will increase significantly. Missing out could force them to settle for Sesko or a cut-price alternative.

What Happens Next?

With the summer window approaching, Arsenal must soon decide whether to back Arteta’s preference (Isak), Berta’s recommendation (Gyokeres), or pivot to a cheaper option like Sesko. One thing is certain: the striker they choose will define their 2025/26 campaign.

Final Verdict

While Arteta dreams of Isak, financial realities may force Arsenal toward Gyokeres—a proven, powerful striker who could finally solve their goalscoring woes. The coming weeks will reveal whether club harmony or hierarchy wins out in this high-stakes transfer battle.