JUST IN: Manchester United could now go for £67m striker if Viktor Gyokeres signs for Arsenal
Several top Premier League sides are in the hunt for a striker this summer, with Manchester United and Arsenal leading the charge. While the Gunners are determined to bring in a new frontman, United are also actively pursuing reinforcements in attack—despite still having confidence in Rasmus Hojlund’s potential.
Naturally, with two big clubs searching for similar profiles, it’s no surprise that they’re looking at the same targets. One name high on both their lists is Viktor Gyokeres. However, Gyokeres has reportedly expressed a preference for joining Arsenal, which could hand the North London side the upper hand in the race. If that deal goes through, Manchester United would have to turn to alternative options.
Ben Jacobs, speaking on The United Stand, suggests that United already have a backup plan. If Gyokeres chooses Arsenal, the Red Devils are expected to shift focus to Benjamin Sesko, a striker who has also attracted attention from the Gunners. Sesko was previously on United’s radar and even received a strong pitch from the club a year ago, though he opted to remain at RB Leipzig at the time.
Arsenal and Manchester United seem to be influencing each other’s transfer strategy. Whichever striker Arsenal end up signing may determine who United go for next. Comparing both forwards, Gyokeres has been in outstanding form and already has a relationship with Ruben Amorim, which could make him a better fit for United. On the other hand, Sesko, while younger and less proven, still brings pace, aerial strength, and potential resale value—something INEOS, United’s ownership group, is keen to factor into their business decisions.
Statistically, Gyokeres outperformed Sesko last season with 54 goals and 12 assists compared to Sesko’s 17 goals and 5 assists. However, Gyokeres’ release clause at Sporting CP stands at €100 million, while Sesko’s is reportedly between €70-80 million, which may make the latter a more realistic option financially. Arsenal have already offered €70 million plus bonuses for Gyokeres, but Sporting want the full clause met, though a gentleman’s agreement might allow for some flexibility.
United, meanwhile, have reignited contact with Sesko’s camp, with his release clause set to activate on July 1. Leipzig expect a full €80 million if the deal drags on, but a swift move could see him go for closer to €70 million.
Internally, United believe Hojlund still has a bright future, but they want another striker who offers more physicality and presence in the box—qualities that both Gyokeres and Sesko provide. While Gyokeres offers immediate impact, Sesko is seen as a long-term investment, similar to the gamble United made with Hojlund in 2023—but this time with more data to justify the move.
The coming weeks will be pivotal. If Arsenal finalise their deal for Gyokeres, United are expected to react quickly and go for Sesko. Otherwise, they risk getting caught in another drawn-out striker chase—especially with clubs like Chelsea and Liverpool also watching closely.
