Arsenal stance on Benjamin Sesko and Dusan Vlahovic revealed, the ‘ship has sailed’ on one of them

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Arsenal were linked with many strikers over the course of the recent summer transfer window. 

Whilst Kai Havertz has impressed up front for Arsenal recently, there is still an argument that Mikel Arteta’s squad lacks reliable striking options.

This becomes more pronounced when considering Gabriel Jesus’ recent struggles. Jesus has been heavily criticised by Arsenal fans and is enduring a lengthy goal drought. 

Were Havertz to succumb to injury, it is hard to imagine that the Brazilian would be able to step up and replicate the former Chelsea man’s contribution. Leandro Trossard could lead the line instead, but the Belgian is generally preferred on the left flank. 

As such, there is a likelihood that Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar will resume the club’s search for a new striker in an upcoming transfer window, be it in January or next summer.

When the time comes, the Gunners may also turn back to targets they have previously considered in this part of the pitch.

• READ MORE: Every player linked to and from Arsenal in the summer 2024 transfer window

Where Arsenal now stand on Benjamin Sesko and Dusan Vlahovic

Arsenal have made moves to sign both Benjamin Sesko and Dusan Vlahovic in the past.

Sesko rejected Arsenal in the most recent summer transfer window. Meanwhile, prior to that, back in 2022, Vlahovic turned down a switch to the Emirates Stadium in favour of joining Juventus, as per the BBC. 

Journalist Charles Watts, writing for Caught Offside, has now shared his insight into where this duo of goalscorers stand in Arteta’s transfer plans.

He said: “Whilst the Vlahovic ship has sailed when it comes to Arsenal, I’m keeping a keen eye on Sesko this season as I still think there is a chance that Arsenal will revisit their interest in the Slovenia international at some point, maybe even next summer.”

Why Sesko should be Arsenal’s top transfer target

Whilst Sesko turned down the Gunners in favour of extending his stay with RB Leipzig, this was an understandable move.

At this stage in his career, the 21-year-old forward needs and wants to be playing regular football. This decision has paid off for him, as he is a key figure for the Bundesliga outfit, and has already netted 6 times in just 9 outings this season.

Had the Slovenian international joined Arsenal ahead of this season, he would likely be playing second fiddle to Havertz and not getting the game time he needs to develop.

However, if Arsenal are able to sign Sesko once he has taken his game to another level, and would arrive ready to seriously compete for a starting berth, then he would be a hugely welcome addition.