Arsenal is reportedly leading AC Milan in the race to secure Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee this summer, as per the Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Gunners are expected to target a new centre-forward in the upcoming transfer window, and Zirkzee has frequently been mentioned in Italian media as a key prospect. Today’s report from Gazzetta dello Sport suggests that while the Dutch striker has been a top target for AC Milan, several Premier League clubs are also vying for his signature.
Arsenal, however, appears to be in the strongest position to sign the 22-year-old. Zirkzee’s €40 million (£34m) release clause will become active in June, making him a viable option for the Gunners.
Arsenal’s Need for a High-Profile Striker
Mikel Arteta’s team came close to winning the Premier League last season, finishing just two points behind champions Manchester City. Despite Zirkzee’s constant links to a transfer, it’s uncertain if he would significantly bolster Arsenal’s squad.
In his second year at Bologna, Zirkzee has scored 12 goals and provided seven assists. However, a recent hamstring injury could sideline him for weeks, raising questions about his immediate impact.
Arsenal likely needs a more established goalscorer to compete effectively with Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. For those looking at young prospects with significant potential, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko might be a superior choice. Sesko has had an impressive 18-goal season at the club level and boasts a better scoring rate than Zirkzee, averaging a goal every 109 minutes compared to Zirkzee’s 252 minutes per goal.
Though Sesko’s release clause is higher at £55m, he could offer better value for money. Arsenal must act swiftly in their pursuit, as Leipzig aims to extend his contract and remove the clause.