MIKEL ARTETA has already drawn up a shortlist of strikers he wants to sign this summer, it’s been claimed.
The Arsenal boss is seemingly already thinking about boosting his attacking options so his troops can mount a sustained challenge on all fronts next season.
And according to reports, the Spaniard has three hitmen on his summer wishlist.
That’s according to The Athletic, who claim Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres and Evan Ferguson are players Arteta is keen on.
Slovenia international Sesko has shone in his debut season with RB Leipzig, scoring 11 goals in 30 appearances in all competitions – two of which have come in the Champions League.
Swedish striker Gyokeres, meanwhile, has found the back of the net a whopping 31 times in 34 appearances for Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon.
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Republic of Ireland international Ferguson enjoyed a stellar campaign for Brighton last season, scoring 16 goals and racking up five assists in all competitions for Roberto de Zerbi’s side.
But he’s only found the back of the net six times this campaign.
Pedro Neto is also said to still be a potential summer signing, although Wolves’ asking price for the winger could put the Gunners off pursuing him.
The Athletic also claim the addition of a new central midfielder could made, with Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi being considered.
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Arteta’s consideration of signing a new striker could be in part due to Gabriel Jesus’ inconsistency in front of goal and spate of injuries since his 2022 move to the Emirates.
The Brazilian was on the bench for the Gunners’ rout of Newcastle last weekend but is fit enough to play in the North Londoners’ trip to Sheffield United on Monday night.
Arteta said of the Brazilian: “He’s fit enough [to play].
“How long he will last that’s very different.
“We didn’t want to take any risks. We need him fit and now we want to make sure we load him in the right way.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
