Arsenal Add Evan Ferguson to Shortlist of Benjamin Sesko Alternatives

Arsenal have reportedly added Brighton & Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson to a three-man shortlist as an alternative to Benjamin Sesko.

Despite Kai Havertz demonstrating his ability to play as a centre-forward towards the end of the 2023-24 season, the Gunners are keen to recruit a new striker. With Eddie Nketiah likely to depart, there will be room in the squad for a new forward during the summer transfer window.

Arsenal initially considered a move for Sesko, who scored 18 goals in his first season at Leipzig. However, their hopes were dashed when Sesko opted to extend his stay in Germany, signing a contract with Leipzig until the summer of 2029.

According to GIVEMESPORT, Arsenal have now identified three alternative targets, including Brighton’s Ferguson.

The Republic of Ireland international has emerged as a potential option despite making only 15 Premier League starts last season due to injury and selection decisions.

Ferguson has shown significant potential, scoring 16 goals and providing five assists in his 65 appearances for Brighton. The 19-year-old would likely command a substantial transfer fee, with his current contract running until June 2029.

Arsenal’s shortlist also includes Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee and Sporting Lisbon’s Victor Gyokeres.

Zirkzee scored 11 goals in 34 Serie A appearances last season, helping Bologna secure a fifth-place finish and Champions League qualification.

However, signing the Dutchman could be challenging, as AC Milan is reportedly leading the race for his signature.

Meanwhile, Gyokeres is already being linked with a move away from Portugal despite joining Sporting from Coventry City last summer.

The Sweden international excelled in his first season with Sporting, scoring 29 league goals in 33 matches to become the Primeira Liga’s top scorer. Gyokeres has a €100m (£85m) release clause in his contract, which runs until the summer of 2028.