Arsenal may use former player to help sign new striker this summer

Arsenal are exploring all possible avenues to secure a new striker this summer—and could look to a former player to help facilitate a key signing before time runs out.

With Benjamin Sesko remaining a priority target, the Gunners have yet to make significant progress in negotiations with RB Leipzig. Their long-standing interest in the Slovenian striker continues, but rising costs and hesitation from the German side have complicated the deal.

Another name firmly on Arsenal’s radar is Viktor Gyokeres, following an outstanding season with Sporting CP in Portugal. Despite strong performances, Gyokeres’ release clause—reportedly in the region of £85 million—has made talks difficult.

Amid the uncertainty, sporting director Andrea Berta may turn to Arsenal’s internal network, including former players with ties to potential targets, to open alternative pathways. Reports suggest that one ex-Gunner, who maintains a close relationship with the striker in question, could play a behind-the-scenes role in helping advance negotiations.

However, any such opportunity may be short-lived. The window of influence could close quickly if rival clubs enter the race or if current clubs grow less willing to negotiate later in the summer.

With Mikel Arteta eager to bring in a clinical finisher to boost Arsenal’s title hopes, time is of the essence. If primary targets like Sesko or Gyokeres prove unreachable, leveraging past relationships may be the club’s secret weapon in sealing a late breakthrough.