Arsenal’s pursuit of a top striker will be a focal point of their transfer strategy heading into the summer window after they failed to secure a signing in the January window.
With injuries depleting Mikel Arteta’s attacking options, the Gunners have been forced to rethink their approach in the final third. While Mikel Merino saved the Gunners against Leicester, bagging 2 late goals, that cannot be their go-to plan heading into next season.
While Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has long been viewed as the ideal solution, his potential move to North London is far from straightforward. Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Isak, Arsenal’s attention has shifted to Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, a younger and more affordable alternative.
Arsenal’s Injury Crisis
Arsenal’s need for a striker stems from their ongoing injury crisis. Brazilian Gabriel Jesus has been sidelined following ACL surgery, while Kai Havertz, who effectively stepped up in his absence, is also out for the season with a hamstring injury.
The absence of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli at various points has further stretched Arsenal’s frontline, leaving Leandro Trossard to operate as a makeshift No. 9.
The club’s failure to secure a forward in the January window, despite attempting Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, has only heightened the urgency for a summer signing.
The Hurdles In Signing Isak
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak has been at the top of Arsenal’s wishlist and a few other top European clubs for some time now. The Swedish international has enjoyed a brilliant season, scoring 19 goals and 5 assists so far this season.
His ability to lead the line, link up play, and operate in fluid attacking structures makes him a perfect fit for Arteta’s system.
However, securing Isak’s signature is easier said than done. Newcastle are under no pressure to sell and are reportedly preparing a new contract offer to increase his wages and fend off interest.
Additionally, Newcastle’s valuation of Isak, which could exceed €110 million, presents a major financial hurdle. Isak himself has remained tight-lipped on transfer speculation, stating in an interview: “Throughout my career, I have never talked about or really commented on the move rumours during the season.”
He added, “It doesn’t affect me. I am fully focused on my task at Newcastle.”
If Newcastle qualify for the Champions League, it becomes even less likely that Isak will push for an exit, forcing Arsenal to look elsewhere.
Is Hugo Ekitike The Alternative?
Arsenal seem to have another striker in their sights if Isak doesn’t go to plan: Hugo Ekitike. The French forward, currently at Eintracht Frankfurt, has emerged as a legitimate target for both Arsenal and Chelsea.
Seen as a more affordable alternative, Ekitike has impressed in the Bundesliga this season, netting 17 goals in 32 appearances and bagging 6 assists as well.
Arsenal’s interest in Ekitike has intensified, with reports from Football London suggesting that Arteta has personally requested the club to explore a deal for the 22-year-old. Frankfurt, aware of growing interest, are reportedly willing to negotiate for a fee in the region of €40 million.
Who Suits Arsenal Better?
Isak, a dynamic forward with elite ball control, thrives in transitions, using his pace and dribbling to create and finish chances. His movement off the ball and ability to operate as a lone striker make him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s setup with the likes of Odegaard and Rice as creative men behind him.
Ekitike, on the other hand, is a technically gifted forward with a more traditional No.9 presence, excelling in link-up play and aerial duels. Ekitike presents a long-term prospect with a raw but promising skill set whereas Isak, already accustomed to the Premier League will get the ground running from day zero.
