With fans divided between two obvious favourites—Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres—Arsenal’s search for a new striker has created heated discussion. But some voices have demanded that both be signed lately, implying a strong double swoop would send a statement to Europe. Although such ambition would denote genuine intention, this Arsenal striker strategy might cause more difficulties than it fixes.
With Gabriel Jesus out and depth required ahead of a tough season, Mikel Arteta’s team should add one top-class forward next. But signing two strikers this summer would be excessive. A more balanced strategy in the transfer window is essential as Arsenal try to finally win the Premier League title.
One Addition Fits the System
Already having an effective option in Kai Havertz, Arteta has shown he is a talented No. 9. The German international contributed consistently and recorded 16 goal contributions in just 18 matches last season. His form revealed he might flourish as a central striker given trust.
Bringing in two additional strikers would overwhelm the position given Gabriel Jesus is also in the squad—despite injury worries. Such a move might displace Havertz unnecessarily and compel the coaching team to balance four players for one spot.
From the beginning, this would also imply that either Sesko or Gyokeres would become second-choice. Especially in a year when players are striving to get their spots for the 2026 World Cup, that circumstance is unsustainable. The Arsenal striker plan should center on enhancing the team rather than accumulating talent and fostering inner conflict.
🚨 @alex_crook: “I had a message 24 hours or so ago suggesting that Viktor Gyökeres has told friends & family that he expects to join Arsenal. Arsenal are juggling both him & Benjamin Sesko, but at the moment, I would say Gyökeres looks the more likely.” [@talkSPORT] pic.twitter.com/Z1BSmPMPCg
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) June 19, 2025
Arsenal’s Real Issue Lies on the Flanks
Although supporters concentrate on who should direct the line, the squad’s main weakness is on out wide. For two years practically single-handedly, Bukayo Saka has handled the role on the right wing. Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard on the left have rotated, yet neither provides constant breadth and both are more effective within the box.
The Gunners will lack dependable wide position depth if Reiss Nelson departs—as expected. That is a serious worry for a team fighting on four fronts next year. The club has already missed out on several wingers in recent windows, including Raphinha, Mykhailo Mudryk, and Nico Williams last summer.
Investing money into two dominant strikers would impede Arsenal’s capacity to solve these wing issues. The smarter play would be to split the expenditure: sign one striker and bring in a top-tier wide forward who could rotate or even start when Saka or Martinelli needed rest.
🚨 Andrea Berta has been in talks to agree deals for Benjamin Sesko & Viktor Gyökeres, but could revive Mikel Arteta’s interest in Ollie Watkins from January. NO bids have been made yet.
Berta brought Gyökeres to the table mainly because he has scored nearly 100 goals over the… pic.twitter.com/OXl9vQyO6X
— afcstuff (@afcstuff) June 19, 2025
Better Options Offer Greater Flexibility
There are players on the market who might address both issues. For example, Real Madrid forward Rodrygo can play on either flank or as a centre- forward. Offering speed and creativity on both sides, Nico Williams brings similar flexibility. Either player would provide much-needed balance paired with only Sesko or Gyokeres. This approach would give Arteta choices across the front line without piling talent in one place. The attack would grow more erratic and flexible—a crucial trait in major games.
Furthermore, players like Rodrygo have grown accustomed to tactical agility and high-pressure situations. They may provide cover in many locations in addition to help Arsenal’s system transition. That is the profile a clever Arsenal striker strategy should aim at.
Investing heavily in two strikers who can’t play anywhere else restricts tactical adaptability and causes selection difficulties. A more equitable recruiting approach would improve the team in crucial areas without compromising chemistry or depth.
Arsenal’s striker dilemma doesn’t require an all-or-nothing approach. Fans would be delighted by signing both Sesko and Gyokeres, yet it would risk producing an uneven team. Bringing one dependable striker and one top-level winger would be a more sensible approach. This approach helps squad depth, increases attacking variety, and maintains the team competitive throughout all competitions.
Which combination do you prefer—striker and winger or double No. 9s? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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