Arsenal will be in the market for a new centre-forward in the summer transfer window.
Mikel Arteta is eager to source an upgrade on Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, both of whom are currently recovering from serious injuries.
Alexander Isak is Arteta’s dream signing, while Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres are also targets the North London club are exploring.
Meanwhile, Arsenal could return for Ollie Watkins, after failing to land the Aston Villa striker in January.
David Ornstein provides Hugo Ekitike to Arsenal transfer update
Another striker who has been linked with Arsenal in recent weeks is Hugo Ekitike.
Described as ‘phenomenal’ by football analyst Ben Mattinson, the Eintracht Frankfurt youngster is enjoying an exceptional season in the Bundesliga, scoring 13 goals and providing four assists in 26 appearances in the German top flight.
Arsenal Insider revealed last week that Arsenal have held talks with intermediaries about Ekitike, with a potential move for the Frenchman on the cards.
However, David Ornstein revealed that he’s not heard much about the club’s interest in Ekitike, before hinting that the rumours may be agent-driven.
Speaking on the Athletic’s YouTube channel, the journalist said: “I don’t know of him being one high up on Arsenal’s radar so far and I don’t know if that changes.
“His name has been touted everywhere which suggests some pretty heavy lifting from an agent or Eintracht Frankfurt.”
Hugo Ekitike is a better option than Benjamin Sesko
While Gyokeres and Isak represent the senior, ready-made options on Arsenal’s striker shortlist, Ekitike and Sesko are the prospects who could develop into something special.
If the Gunners opt to go down the latter route, Ekitike is the better option.
| Statistical Comparison 2024/25 (Bundesliga Only) | ||
| Stat | Sesko | Ekitike |
| Appearances | 26 | 26 |
| Goals | 10 | 13 |
| Assists | 5 | 4 |
| Shots per 90 | 2.47 | 4.13 |
| Expected Goals per 90 | 0.36 | 0.83 |
| Key Passes per 90 | 0.76 | 1.65 |
| Expected Assists per 90 | 0.07 | 0.21 |
| Successful Take-Ons per 90 | 1.52 | 1.93 |
As shown by the data above, the France under-21 international puts up more shots and accumulates more expected goals than his Slovenian counterpart, which means he’s more likely to score a high volume of goals in the long-term.
Ektike also produces a lot more in the build-up, completing more dribbles and creating more chances for his teammates.
It’s a no-brainer for Arteta and his analytics department.
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