Arsenal’s long-awaited desire to add a new striker to Mikel Arteta’s squad may be forced to be delayed. The Gunners are keen to add a new striker to their ranks this summer after another season of falling short.
Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah both endured difficult seasons last term, scoring just 15 goals between them. Kai Havertz did fill in as the No.9 and managed to find some form with nine goals and five assists in the final 14 games.
Since the final ball was kicked against Everton on the final day of the season, talk has accelerated over which striker will arrive over the summer. Nearly every top forward has been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium with the likes of Victor Osimhen and Victor Gyokeres mentioned.
RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko did emerge as a clear favourite earlier this month before opting to sign a contract extension in Germany. Edu Gaspar and Arteta do still have plenty of time to land their ideal candidate but they are likely to prefer to get a deal done sooner rather than later.
Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee remains a firm target for Arsenal and his impressive displays in Serie A. He scored 12 goals in 37 matches and was voted as the best young player in the league. Zirzkee has a £34million release clause in his contract meaning he has plenty of interest.
AC Milan, Manchester United and Juventus are all monitoring his situation, also. However, any hope of getting a deal over the line in the coming weeks are no longer viable.
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Zirkzee was set for a busy summer off-the-pitch this year but his plans have changed somewhat. The 23-year-old was recently called up to the senior Netherlands squad for Euro 2024 after Brian Brobbey was forced to drop out due to injury.
The striker is yet to be capped by Ronald Koeman but the upcoming tournament presents a massive opportunity for him to showcase his ability on the biggest stage. However, his inclusion in the summer spectacle means Arsenal may have to wait to get a deal done for Zirkzee.
Depending on how the Netherlands do, Zirkzee may not be available until July. The Oranje are not one of the favourites to lift the trophy but are more than likely to qualify out of their group and feature in the knockout stages.
It is going to be an interesting summer at the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal look to make changes and give Mikel Arteta the squad to overhaul Manchester City and win the Premier League title.
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