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Arsenal fans now believe they signed the best striker in the summer
(Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres were the two strikers Arsenal had placed at the top of their shortlist in the summer transfer window, with the Gunners engaging in negotiations for both forwards. In the summer of 2024, Arsenal were particularly keen to secure Sesko following his impressive debut season at RB Leipzig. However, the player felt that a move to the Emirates came too soon in his career, and he declined the opportunity.

As a result, Arsenal did not add a new striker that summer, but they continued to monitor Sesko’s progress closely. Their interest was reignited in the most recent window, yet circumstances shifted, and the club ultimately opted to pursue Gyokeres instead.

Arsenal’s Transfer Decision

Both Sesko and Gyokeres remained highly rated by the Arsenal hierarchy, yet financial considerations and value in the market played a significant role in the final decision. Gyokeres emerged as the more viable option, leading to his acquisition. His impact was immediate, with the Swedish forward scoring twice in his most recent outing for the Gunners, underlining why the club committed to his signing.

Sesko, meanwhile, has endured a more challenging spell. His recent performance in domestic competition has come under scrutiny, particularly after Manchester United were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by fourth-tier Grimsby Town, a match in which Sesko was unable to make a meaningful contribution.

Supporters’ Reflections on Sesko

As cited by The Sun, this has prompted many Arsenal supporters to feel a sense of relief that their club chose not to pursue the Slovenian forward more aggressively. The perception is that the decision to move for Gyokeres has been vindicated by his immediate productivity, whereas Sesko continues to find consistency elusive.

However, it remains impossible to determine with certainty whether Sesko would have enjoyed greater success had he joined Arsenal. The two clubs involved are currently at different stages of development, and their contrasting trajectories make such comparisons speculative at best. What is clear, though, is that Arsenal’s decision to back Gyokeres has strengthened their attacking line at a crucial time, giving them the forward presence they had been seeking for more than a year.

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This article first appeared on Just Arsenal and was syndicated with permission.

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