Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Viktor Gyokeres as their marquee striker signing. While Benjamin Sesko had long been on their radar, his decision to stay at RB Leipzig forced a change in plans but Gyokeres may actually be the better fit for a club in win-now mode. Here are eight key reasons why Arsenal are turning to the Sporting Lisbon striker over Sesko.
1. Gyokeres Is Ready to Deliver Now
At 27, Gyokeres is entering his prime and has already proven himself as a consistent scorer with close to 100 goals in under 100 games at Sporting. Arsenal need a forward who can hit the ground running. Sesko, at just 21, is still developing and represents more of a long-term project, which doesn’t align with Arsenal’s immediate title ambitions.
2. Premier League-Proven Physicality
Gyokeres already has experience in English football from his time in the Championship with Coventry City, where he showcased his strength and tenacity. He has since added technical refinement in Portugal, making him a complete forward. His physical style suits the demands of the Premier League, unlike Sesko who is yet to be tested in such a rigorous environment.
3. Elite Pressing Ability
Arsenal’s system under Arteta relies heavily on high-intensity pressing, especially from the front. Gyokeres is an elite presser who leads from the front with energy, intelligence, and urgency. His movement and defensive work create panic in opposition backlines an area where Sesko still needs improvement.
4. Threat in Both Tight and Transitional Matches
Arsenal often dominate possession but struggle to break down deep defences. Gyokeres brings unpredictability and can operate effectively in tight spaces or on the break. His versatility gives Arsenal more tactical options, especially in matches where their usual patterns stall. Sesko tends to perform better when there is space to exploit something Arsenal rarely face.
5. Left-Sided Attack Reinforcement
Arsenal’s attacking play is overly reliant on the right flank. Gyokeres frequently drifts into the left channel, offering natural width and driving inside, creating overloads that help balance the attack. Sesko tends to occupy more central or right-sided zones, which does little to address Arsenal’s structural imbalance.
6. Better Link-Up Play Under Pressure
Gyokeres excels at bringing teammates into play when under pressure. He’s effective at holding the ball, creating space for midfield runners, and maintaining attacking fluidity. This composure in crowded areas is vital in the Premier League. Sesko, though technically skilled, is still refining this aspect of his game.
7. Can Create Chances Solo
Gyokeres is capable of creating danger on his own through solo runs, physical duels, or individual brilliance. Arsenal need a striker who can spark something from nothing, especially in tight games. While Sesko has flashes of this, he lacks the consistency to be a one-man threat.
8. Arsenal Want Certainty, Not Just Potential
With the margins so tight in title races, Arsenal are prioritising proven quality over raw upside. Gyokeres offers reliability, leadership, and a known output, while Sesko remains a gamble. For a club ready to win now, the Swede is the smarter, safer investment.
