Mikel Arteta has been on the hunt for a reliable goalscorer this summer with the hope of gaining the edge over Manchester City in the Premier League. But the Arsenal manager has faced major setbacks in acquiring either of his two preferred No. 9 choices – RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Newcastle’s Isak.
Sesko – highly rated for his speed, power and goalscoring prowess – rejected interest from north London earlier this summer by signing a new contract with the Bundesliga club. Newcastle, meanwhile, have since made it clear that Isak – who scored 21 league goals last season – is not for sale.
Beyond Isak’s clear importance, Newcastle are reluctant to let him join Arsenal specifically. That stems from the latter’s attitude towards state-owned clubs at boardroom level.
Arsenal executives have been among the most proactive within the Premier League in trying to limit the potential financial influence of Saudi Arabian-owned Newcastle and Abu Dhabi-owned Manchester City, meaning the relationship between the two clubs has seen better days.
Arteta faces a challenge following the latest setback with Isak, as he only wants a unique mould of striker with very specific attributes. As reported by The Independent, he will now shift his focus to an alternative position – the wide forward role.
The need for a high quality player to rotate with Bukayo Saka has been evident at the Emirates Stadium for some time, as the Englishman’s minutes have been unsustainable over several seasons. Gabriel Jesus offers an internal solution, but Arsenal could divert the funds saved on a striker to recruit a winger instead.
Spain’s in demand Euro 2024 hero Nico Williams appears set to remain at Athletic Club. That leaves Wolves’ Pedro Neto as a potential target, provided Arteta is willing to gamble on his talent and overlook his worrying injury history.
Despite enduring two significant hamstring injuries last season, Neto managed to notch nine league assists and two goals. His injury woes caused him to miss a total of 23 games, making him a risky acquisition.
Arteta and sporting director Edu have already demonstrated their willingness to splash the cash on their preferred targets. They’ve made significant investments already this summer, bringing in David Raya for £27m and Riccardo Calafiori for £42m.
Author: Mujuni Henry
JUNIITV
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