Arsenal are reportedly ‘closing in’ on ‘top target’ Benjamin Sesko as they are ‘willing to spend big on a striker now’ after Mikel Arteta’s ‘big push’.

Arsenal is actively looking to strengthen their squad during the January transfer window, with two promising strikers, Evan Ferguson from Brighton & Hove Albion and Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, emerging as top targets. This comes in the wake of Gabriel Jesus’ serious knee injury, which has left Mikel Arteta with limited options in the center-forward position.

Evan Ferguson, a 20-year-old Irish striker, burst onto the Premier League scene with Brighton, impressing fans and analysts alike with his physical presence, sharp instincts, and goal-scoring ability. However, injuries have hampered his progress, limiting his appearances this season under Brighton’s new manager, Fabian Hurzeler. Ferguson has made only two Premier League starts this season, struggling to regain his spot in the starting eleven.

Despite these setbacks, Ferguson remains a highly regarded talent. Standing at 6ft 2in, he has the physical attributes to compete at the highest level. His potential has not gone unnoticed, with Arsenal reportedly making contact with Brighton to discuss a possible deal. Brighton is open to letting him leave, either on a loan deal or through a permanent transfer for around £40 million.

Arsenal faces stiff competition for Ferguson’s signature, with clubs like Bayer Leverkusen, Everton, Bournemouth, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United also showing interest. West Ham, in particular, is believed to be in a strong position to secure his services.

Benjamin Sesko, a 21-year-old Slovenian striker, has emerged as one of the most promising young forwards in Europe. Currently playing for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, Sesko has scored 14 goals and provided three assists in 26 appearances this season. His impressive performances have made him Arsenal’s top transfer target.

Arsenal initially pursued Sesko during the summer transfer window, but the deal fell through as he chose to stay at Leipzig for another season. However, the Gunners have remained in contact with Sesko and his representatives, and recent reports suggest they are closing in on a deal worth around £60 million.

Sesko is known for his athleticism, sharp finishing, and ability to create chances. He has a “gentleman’s agreement” with RB Leipzig, allowing him to move in the summer, but Arsenal is pushing to complete the transfer in January due to Gabriel Jesus’ injury. Mikel Arteta is reportedly making a “big push” to secure Sesko’s signature, viewing him as the ideal striker to boost Arsenal’s title hopes.

Arsenal’s need for a new striker has become urgent following Gabriel Jesus’ injury. The Brazilian forward’s absence has left Arteta with Kai Havertz as the only recognized center-forward. While Havertz has shown flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency in front of goal has been a concern.

The Gunners’ overreliance on Bukayo Saka and set pieces for goals this season highlights the need for a reliable goal scorer. Arsenal’s title ambitions hinge on addressing this issue promptly. The failed attempt to sign Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa, despite a £60 million bid, underscores the club’s determination to strengthen their attacking options.

Securing Ferguson or Sesko won’t be easy. Several top clubs are vying for their signatures, which could drive up the transfer fees and complicate negotiations. Bayer Leverkusen, Everton, Bournemouth, Tottenham Hotspur, and West Ham United are all interested in Ferguson. Similarly, Sesko is attracting attention from clubs across Europe.

Arsenal’s advantage lies in their current status as Premier League title contenders and their ability to offer Champions League football. Additionally, Mikel Arteta’s project and the prospect of playing in a dynamic, attacking system could appeal to both players.

Arsenal is prepared to spend big to secure their top targets. The club has shown a willingness to invest in the squad, as evidenced by their pursuit of Watkins and the reported £60 million offer for Sesko. Brighton’s £40 million asking price for Ferguson also falls within Arsenal’s budget.

However, the financial implications of these transfers are significant. Arsenal must balance their spending to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations. The club’s recent investments in players like Declan Rice and Kai Havertz have already added to their wage bill and transfer expenditures.

Signing either Ferguson or Sesko could have a transformative impact on Arsenal’s season. Both players bring different qualities to the table:

• Evan Ferguson: A strong, physical presence who can hold up the ball, link play, and provide a focal point for the attack. His potential to develop into a top striker makes him an exciting prospect for the future.
• Benjamin Sesko: A dynamic, versatile forward with a keen eye for goal. His pace, movement, and finishing ability would add a new dimension to Arsenal’s attack.

Integrating a new striker mid-season can be challenging, but both Ferguson and Sesko have the talent and mindset to adapt quickly. Their arrivals would also provide healthy competition for existing forwards, potentially raising the overall performance level of the squad

Arsenal’s pursuit of Evan Ferguson and Benjamin Sesko reflects their ambition to compete at the highest level. With Gabriel Jesus sidelined, the need for a new striker is clear. Both Ferguson and Sesko offer unique qualities that could enhance Arsenal’s attacking prowess.

While the transfer fees are substantial, the potential rewards are even greater. A prolific striker could be the missing piece in Arsenal’s quest for Premier League glory. As the January transfer deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the Emirates Stadium to see if Mikel Arteta can secure his top targets and bolster Arsenal’s title challenge.