Arsenal face warnings over their summer transfer plans as Frank Leboeuf advises caution before splashing a huge fee on one of Mikel Arteta’s preferred striker targets. The Gunners are keen to add a top goalscorer after enduring a fifth season without silverware.
Last season’s injury crisis forced midfielder Mikel Merino into an emergency striker role, highlighting Arsenal’s urgent need for reinforcements upfront. Among the forwards linked with the club are Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres, and Hugo Ekitike—none of whom come cheap.
Sesko, who netted 13 Bundesliga goals last season, is Arteta’s leading target but RB Leipzig reportedly demand around £85 million for the 22-year-old Slovenian international. Leboeuf described that valuation as excessive and questioned the risks of investing heavily in a player moving from a smaller club to the Premier League.
Arsenal could consider Gyokeres as a less costly alternative, though the Sporting Lisbon striker reportedly wants a hefty weekly wage nearing £300,000. Manchester United also have an interest in Gyokeres, who scored an impressive 54 goals last season, which could spark a bidding battle.
While searching for striking reinforcements, Arsenal are also pursuing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi in a £51 million deal. The midfielder, a Euro 2024 winner with Spain, is viewed as a vital addition to replace Jorginho and potentially Thomas Partey, who is yet to sign a new contract and is attracting interest from clubs like Barcelona.
As Arsenal prepare for another transfer window of comings and goings, the need for smart investments and balance in their squad is more crucial than ever.