Arsenal preparing for Sesko DISAPPOINTMENT with transfer for long-term target REVIVED

Arsenal are expanding their striker search and preparing for potential disappointment in their chases for top targets Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko, with a familiar face once again being considered.

A leading number nine is expected to be top of Mikel Arteta’s agenda this summer after the Gunners saw their title challenged derailed by their lack of depth in attack over recent months.

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While Isak remains the dream target, Arsenal are aware that a move for the Newcastle striker is unrealistic due to the Magpies valuing their talisman at more than €150 million.

Sesko is considered a more feasible target but there is interest from a number of sides in the RB Leipzig youngster, while Arsenal may also opt for a more proven alternative.

The situation has prompted Arsenal to renew their interest in Dusan Vlahovic, according to Spanish outlet todofichajes, who claim that the Gunners are ‘preparing a formal offer’ for the Juventus marksman.

Vlahovic is entering the final year of his contract and therefore could be available on a cut-price deal, giving Arsenal more spending power in other areas if they can seal a deal for around €30m.

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Arsenal set to decide between pedigree and potential in striker pursuit

Vlahovic is a name that will be familiar to Arsenal, having heavily pursued the Serbian prior to his €83.5m move to Juve in January 2022 and Arteta is thought to value the 25-year-old’s physical presence above all.

Juventus will look to cash in on Vlahovic this summer, particularly if they end up missing out on Champions League football next season, giving Arsenal the leverage in negotiations.

Vlahovic has only scored nine goals in Serie A for Juve this season but, with Sesko having netted just one more in the Bundesliga, Arsenal will decide whether the 21-year-old is worth the potential €70m outlay and if he can be their long-term answer to their goalscoring woes.

Despite interest from a number of Premier League rivals including Chelsea, Arsenal hope that their sporting prospects, conbined with Vlahovic playing an integral role under Arteta, could prove decisive in the striker’s decision.