Another season with no trophy has left Arsenal and Mikel Arteta itching for success, something they will try to cure with a hefty summer of spending.
However, no club can purchase without limits, which makes strategic, well-targeted signings all the more important, especially when the summer market includes so many high-quality, attainable options.
With Champions League qualification and a second-place finish, Arsenal’s focus is firmly on how they can sharpen their squad to mount another serious title challenge and Champions League run. Reinforcements in key areas could be the difference between another near miss and finally getting over the line.
Benjamin Sesko – Striker – Red Bull Leipzig
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Arsenal are in clear need of additional firepower up front, particularly given the injury records of both Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus. A reliable and physically imposing striker could provide the balance that Mikel Arteta’s attack has been missing.
Benjamin Sesko fits the profile perfectly. The Slovenian forward has already demonstrated natural goalscoring instincts, netting over 12 goals in each of his two Bundesliga seasons with RB Leipzig. His current record stands at:
Benjamin Sesko’s RB Leipzig record
Appearances: 87
Goals: 39
Assists: 8
Sesko’s explosive movement, aerial presence, and clinical finishing would bring a new dimension to the Arsenal frontline that often lacks vertical threat and unpredictability in the box.
While prising him away from Leipzig won’t be straightforward, his release clause presents a clear opening. With Europe’s elite circling, Arsenal simply cannot afford to hesitate again.
Rodrygo – Winger – Real Madrid
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Arsenal have recently been linked with a sensational move for Rodrygo, though any potential deal would likely hinge on significant outgoings, with either Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli expected to make way to accommodate the Real Madrid star.
Rodrygo v Martinelli and Trossard (Transfermarkt)
Sofa Score Age Avg rating Goals Assists Succ. dribbles Big chances created Big chances missed
Rodrygo 24 7.4 6 5 51.6% 5 1
Martinelli 23 6.96 8 4 35.5% 7 8
Trossard 30 7.08 8 7 50.7 13 9
Rodrygo outperforms both Arsenal wingers in key metrics – including average rating, successful dribbles and even big chances missed – despite playing 621 fewer minutes than Trossard and 363 minutes fewer than Martinelli this season.
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While differences in league style and team dynamics must be considered, the numbers point to a player delivering more with less opportunity.
Yet, despite consistent media praise, Rodrygo doesn’t appear to be a regular first-choice under Carlo Ancelotti, something Xabi Alonso could view differently ahead of his taking over the reins at Real Madrid.
Martin Zubimendi – Central Midfielder – Real Sociedad
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Rumours surrounding Martin Zubimendi have been circulating before Mikel Merino’s arrival last summer.
With past interest from Liverpool now seemingly cooled, it feels almost destined for Zubimendi to join fellow ex-Real Sociedad midfielders Martin Odegaard and Merino on the red side of North London.
The appeal of Arsenal as a destination is clear, not least because of Merino’s early success under Arteta, even thriving in an unorthodox false nine role when required. That blend of tactical trust and upward trajectory makes Arsenal an increasingly attractive project for Zubimendi.
Jamie Bynoe-Gittens – Winger – Borussia Dortmund
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Jamie Bynoe-Gittens has gradually carved out a more prominent role at Borussia Dortmund, with his influence growing season by season.
This year marked a significant step forward for the 20-year-old, recording 48 appearances across all competitions and contributing 17 goals and assists, a clear sign of his increasing consistency and end product at senior level.
Dortmund are known for extracting value from their young stars, possibly setting the stage for a serious transfer battle if Arsenal are to rival interest from elsewhere.
James Beadle – Goalkeeper – Brighton
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The backup goalkeeper position is expected to be addressed this summer, with Arsenal potentially committing significant funds to reinforce their front three and reportedly close to signing Zubimendi.
The secondary goalkeeper role appears to be one where the club will look for a long-term option rather than a high-cost backup.
One name emerging in this context is James Beadle, a towering 6’7″ 20-year-old with EFL Championship experience, having spent the past two seasons on loan at Sheffield Wednesday.
Arsenal could offer the youngster an ambitious project, even if it comes without the same guarantee of immediate game time.