New Report Reveals Why Arsenal Are Signing Sesko Over Viktor Gyökeres

Arsenal’s striker shortlist for the summer window has taken a decisive turn, with a new report revealing that Benjamin Šeško is now firmly ahead of Viktor Gyökeres in the Gunners’ internal pecking order. While both forwards have been under serious consideration, the club is leaning heavily toward Šeško as their preferred choice — and the reasons behind the decision paint a clear picture of Arsenal’s transfer strategy.

According to a report from The Independent, Arsenal began the summer weighing up a straight decision between the 21-year-old Slovenian and the 26-year-old Swedish forward Gyökeres, who has been prolific for Sporting CP. However, club insiders believe Šeško possesses a significantly higher long-term ceiling — a key factor in what is shaping up to be one of Arsenal’s biggest investments of the window.

Šeško’s profile fits seamlessly with Arsenal’s model of signing young, high-potential talent with room for growth. Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta are reportedly in agreement that Šeško’s movement, physical attributes, and composure in front of goal make him an ideal long-term solution for the centre-forward role at the Emirates. Despite being only 21, he has already displayed maturity and an upward trajectory that excites the club’s technical staff.

On the other hand, while Gyökeres has enjoyed a sensational season in Portugal — scoring and assisting regularly for Sporting — there is a growing belief across the market that his valuation is simply too high. The Swedish international is seen as a more physically developed, ready-made option, but one who may not offer the same upside or resale value as Šeško in the long run. With Sporting reportedly demanding a fee in the region of €100 million, Arsenal have cooled on that front.

Cost-efficiency also plays a role. Šeško’s release clause is significantly lower, believed to be around €65 million, and although still a major outlay, it is more palatable for a player considered one of the best young strikers in Europe. With Arsenal looking to strengthen in multiple areas — including the wings and possibly in midfield — managing finances wisely is vital.

Moreover, the decision appears to align with the broader strategy at Arsenal: building a young, dynamic team capable of challenging for top honours over several seasons. The recent success of players like Bukayo Saka, William Saliba, and Gabriel Martinelli — all signed or integrated at a young age — supports the logic of prioritising long-term development and peak value.

While no final deal has yet been agreed, the Gunners are now focusing their efforts on pushing through a move for Šeško. Talks are understood to be progressing positively with the player’s camp, and there is cautious optimism that a transfer could be sealed early in the summer window.

In what promises to be another important window for Arteta’s project, the club’s preference for Šeško over Gyökeres underlines a clear message: Arsenal are planning for both now — and the future.