Arsenal have begun shaping their summer transfer strategy, with the focus now firmly set on acquiring a world-class striker rather than pursuing a move for **Real Madrid**’s Rodrygo. Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are aligned in their belief that a reliable centre-forward is the missing piece needed to elevate Arsenal’s competitive edge domestically and in Europe.
While Rodrygo had been listed among the potential summer additions at the Emirates, his £85 million valuation has proven to be a stumbling block. The Gunners remain ambitious in the market, but they are determined to invest wisely—ensuring that the budget is directed toward positions of greater need. As a result, the pursuit of a top-class Arsenal striker target now defines their transfer approach.
🚨 Arsenal are genuine contenders to sign Real Madrid winger Rodrygo. 🔴
🗣️ “I got a message earlier this week saying keep an eye on Arsenal and Rodrygo.”
(Source: @alex_crook) pic.twitter.com/a5bDqsynok
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) May 16, 2025
Wide Options Limit Need for Rodrygo Move
While Rodrygo is a top-rated and energetic winger, the Gunners’ existing depth on the flanks has determined their choice to seek elsewhere. With Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Leandro Trossard, and young starlet Ethan Nwaneri already at his disposal, Arteta has enough options out wide. Spending big on another winger would not address the club’s biggest on-pitch problems.
The focus instead has shifted to the glaring absence of a true number nine. Arsenal’s promising campaigns in recent years did not fulfill its expectations because of lack of a clinical striker capable of consistently delivering goals in high-pressure matches. While the squad has performed well, the reliance on midfielders and wide players to carry the scoring burden has proven unsustainable in key moments.
Rather than spending close to £85 million on a player who may not start every week, the club intends to channel those funds into a more impactful addition up front.
Striker Recruitment Now Takes Centre Stage
Sources indicate that Arsenal’s recruitment team is working to secure a new striker early in the window, with several names under serious consideration. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is one of the leading contenders. The 20-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Bundesliga, and his profile fits Arsenal’s strategy of blending youth with top-level potential.
🚨Arsenal have put in a lot of work over the last year to get a deal done for Benjamin Sesko this summer.
The striker has a release clause of £67million when the transfer window opens and he remains Mikel Arteta’s number one target.
It seems likely Benjamin Sesko will be… pic.twitter.com/1uKMTuDE3Q
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) May 15, 2025
Additionally, **Aston Villa**’s Ollie Watkins remains a realistic option. His proven record in the Premier League and all-round attributes—movement, link-up play, and finishing—make him an attractive choice. While a deal for Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku appears unlikely at this stage, Arsenal’s focus remains firmly on bringing in someone who can start from day one and shoulder responsibility in big matches.
Arteta and Berta are reportedly working in sync, identifying candidates and laying the groundwork to ensure swift negotiations once the season concludes. With Champions League football nearly secured again, Arsenal will be able to offer elite-level competition and a clear pathway to silverware—both major incentives for top forwards.
Arsenal Must Deliver in the Transfer Market
After three consecutive seasons of coming close to major honours, Arsenal recognise that marginal gains in the transfer market could be the difference between another near-miss and a trophy-winning campaign. The club’s hierarchy aims to close the significant gap between them and newly crowned champions Liverpool.
A marquee striker signing would not only lift the squad technically but also send a message across Europe that Arsenal are ready to compete at the very highest level. The emphasis now is on precision and impact—not glamour signings for the sake of it. By prioritising a centre-forward and pulling away from the Rodrygo pursuit, Arsenal are showing clarity in their approach. The club will guide every decision in the upcoming window by targeting areas that matter the most for strengthening.
Arsenal’s decision to target an elite-level striker over signing Rodrygo indicates a greater sense of strategy and necessity when it comes to the transfer window. With a solid foundation on which to build, adding a goal-scoring finisher might at last bring promise to silverware.
For more sports updates, make sure to follow us on:
Recommended for you