(Credit: Getty)

Edward Bazeley

Thu 10 July 2025 9:12, UK

Arsenal could miss out on signing both Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres amid major updates on the Gunners’ transfer targets.

Acquiring either striker could prove to be the final piece in the jigsaw for the North Londoners as they strive to beat the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool in next season’s Premier League title race.

Gyokeres has established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe since leaving Coventry City in 2023, scoring 54 goals in 52 appearances for Sporting last term.

Meanwhile, Sesko has performed well for German powerhouse Leipzig, scoring 21 goals in 45 outings last term.

Arsenal dealt fresh Gyokeres and Sesko blows

Amid Mikel Arteta’s desire to sign a new striker, Arsenal have been closing in on Gyokeres, who proved he can perform against Premier League opposition by scoring a Champions League hat-trick against Man City last November.

However, according to The Independent [9 July], the Gunners’ negotiations for the 27-year-old have stalled over a difference in overall value and terms.

Meanwhile, Arsenal have eyed Sesko, who would be a worthy alternative to Gyokeres, should they fail to acquire the Sporting hotshot.

But as per The Sun‘s live transfer blog [9 July, 7.30pm], Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal want so sign the Leipzig forward.

If the North London club consequently fail to sign either Gyokeres or Sesko, it would have a detrimental effect on their title chances.

Liverpool and Man City will continue to enjoy the services of Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland, respectively, whereas Arteta’s men may have to go without a similarly successful goalscorer.

Sesko should favour Premier League move amid Al Hilal interest

There is no doubt that Al Hilal’s interest in Sesko has put Arteta’s side under pressure to act fast while their advances for Gyokeres reportedly stall.

The Emirates Stadium outfit’s best-case scenario is that they manage to sign the former Coventry man, who is an adept assist-maker as well as boasting a lethal eye for goal.

Gyokeres proved his worth by firing Sporting to both of the last two Portuguese league titles, and Arsenal should be gutted if they miss out on his signature.

However, Sesko’s Bundesliga performances show that he is capable of adjusting to the challenge of the Premier League, and could be an ideal alternative to the Sweden international.

The 22-year-old should favour a move to North London over a transfer to the Saudi Pro League if the Gunners turn their attention towards him amid their Gyokeres difficulties.

Sesko has proven he is worthy of playing Champions League football, having scored four goals in eight appearances in the competition last season.