Arsenal drop pursuit of Mikel Arteta’s top summer target over ‘impossible’ demands

Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal have wasted no time in launching what is expected to be a busy summer transfer window following a disappointing end to their 2024/25 campaign.

Despite mounting a strong challenge, the Gunners fell short in the Premier League title race, with Liverpool crowned champions weeks before the final matchday. Hopes of European glory were also dashed after a stunning 5-1 aggregate victory over Real Madrid in the Champions League quarter-finals was followed by a 3-1 semi-final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

In response, Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s recruitment team have begun reinforcing the squad. Martin Zubimendi is set to become the club’s first signing of the summer, with reports confirming that Arsenal will activate the midfielder’s release clause at Real Sociedad.

READ MORE: Arsenal target spotted house hunting in London after bidding farewell to teammates

Attention now turns to bolstering the attack, with Arteta eager to land a top-class striker. Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak is a long-term target, but a move for the Swedish international is now considered ‘impossible’ due to his £150 million price tag, despite suggestions he would be open to joining the north London club.

As a result, Arsenal’s striker shortlist has narrowed to two more financially feasible options: Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko. The Gunners are prepared to invest heavily in a new No. 9 after injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz derailed their title push in the second half of the season.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!

According to The Independent, both Gyokeres and Sesko are seen as attainable targets, with price tags below £75 million. Arsenal were previously interested in Sesko last summer before the Slovenian extended his stay at RB Leipzig. However, new sporting director Andrea Berta reportedly prefers Gyokeres, who could be available for a fee lower than his release clause at Sporting Lisbon—potentially making him £15 million cheaper than Sesko.

Gyokeres, 26, is considered a more complete forward, while the 21-year-old Sesko is viewed as a longer-term prospect with room to develop.

Meanwhile, Arsenal remain intent on adding a left winger to their ranks, with Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams at the top of their wishlist. The Spanish international is attracting significant interest, but Arsenal are currently seen as frontrunners. A number of Premier League-based wingers also remain under consideration, depending on how the market evolves in the coming weeks.

The Gunners are also expected to pursue reinforcements in midfield and between the posts, as Arteta aims to build a squad capable of finally capturing silverware next season.

NEXT ARTICLE: Important details you shouldn’t miss about Arsenal 2025/26 home kit