JUST IN: Manchester United could now go for £67m striker if Viktor Gyokeres signs for Arsenal – journalist
Several leading Premier League clubs are actively seeking to strengthen their attack this summer, with Manchester United and Arsenal particularly in need of a new striker.
Arsenal are expected to bring in a forward during the window, and Manchester United are also pushing to reinforce their options, even though Rasmus Hojlund remains a valued part of their plans.
Naturally, when top clubs are pursuing similar targets, there’s often overlap in their scouting lists. Both clubs have their eyes on Viktor Gyokeres. However, reports suggest the Swedish striker has expressed a preference for joining Arsenal over United, which could see him heading to north London.
Should that move go through, United are preparing an alternative strategy. Journalist Ben Jacobs revealed on The United Stand that United could reignite their interest in Benjamin Sesko if Gyokeres ends up at Arsenal. Interestingly, Sesko has also been on Arsenal’s radar, with a potential deal for the Slovenian striker expected to cost around £67 million. This could mean that whichever striker Arsenal sign, the other may become available for United.
Jacobs added that United remain keen on Sesko, having previously made a strong approach for him a year ago before he chose to stay with RB Leipzig. With Gyokeres showing signs of leaning toward Arsenal, Sesko is being reconsidered by United as a viable option.
This situation presents a delicate balancing act. Arsenal’s decision may directly affect United’s transfer direction. Comparing both strikers, Gyokeres currently boasts more impressive goal numbers and already has a strong connection with United’s current manager Ruben Amorim from their time together at Sporting CP. On the other hand, Sesko is younger and has potential, but he’s still untested at the very highest level—similar to when United took a chance on Hojlund.
Statistically, Gyokeres, aged 26, scored 54 goals and provided 12 assists in 49 appearances last season. He has a release clause of €100 million, and Sporting are yet to accept any offer below that. Arsenal have offered €70 million plus bonuses, but negotiations are ongoing.
Sesko, at 21, registered 17 goals and 5 assists in 38 matches. His release clause ranges from €70 to €80 million and becomes active on July 1st. United have renewed contact with his representatives as they consider a fresh move.
If Arsenal succeed in signing Gyokeres, United’s attention will likely shift fully to Sesko. Financially, Sesko would cost less and align better with United’s transfer policy under INEOS, which favors younger players with resale potential.
Gyokeres is more of a finished product—strong in transitions, relentless in pressing, and a reliable goalscorer—but his price tag could create financial pressure, especially if United also want to bring in a new defender this window. In contrast, Sesko brings aerial threat, speed, and long-term upside, even if he still needs to improve aspects like link-up play.
Looking ahead, July will be a critical period. Sesko’s clause activates on the 1st, and United will have to decide quickly. Arsenal are expected to return with an improved offer for Gyokeres, and United may gain more financial clarity after offloading players like Greenwood, Casemiro, and Wan-Bissaka.
For now, United still hope for a breakthrough with Gyokeres, but Sesko remains a solid fallback. If Arsenal speed up their move, United will need to act fast to avoid another transfer window without securing the striker they need.
