The Next Big Striker Debate: Benjamin Šeško vs. Viktor Gyökeres
Arsenal’s Striker Search: A Clear Priority
Arsenal’s ambitions for the upcoming season are undeniably high, yet one question looms large: Who will be their new striker? After a disappointing campaign plagued by injuries and a lack of depth in attack, the North London club is eager to secure a top-notch centre-forward. However, turning that ambition into reality is trickier than it appears.
The Challenge: A Scarcity of Elite Strikers
The market for elite strikers is tightening, and Arsenal finds itself in a challenging position. While Alexander Isak remains the dream target, his lofty price tag may push the Gunners to explore alternative options. Enter Benjamin Šeško of RB Leipzig and Viktor Gyökeres of Sporting CP—two young prospects who seem to fit the bill but come with their own sets of strengths and weaknesses.
The Contenders: Šeško vs. Gyökeres
Goalscoring Track Record
When it comes to sheer goalscoring prowess, there’s a stark contrast between these two talents. Šeško, at just 22, has netted an impressive 39 goals across his last two seasons in Leipzig. But then there’s Gyökeres, who, at 27, has truly set the bar high by scoring 97 goals in just 102 matches for Sporting, including an astonishing 54-goal season in 2024-25. Though he faces lower-caliber opponents, his remarkable six Champions League goals in just eight games this term, including a hat-trick against Manchester City, firmly establishes him as a force to be reckoned with.
Gyökeres has been in devastating form over recent seasons. / IMAGO / Maciej Rogowski
Assisting Ability and Creativity
Beyond just goals, how do these players create for their teammates? Gyökeres again comes out on top, averaging 4.75 shot-creating actions and 0.84 goal-creating actions per 90 minutes compared to Šeško’s 1.8 and 0.28. This creative edge could make Gyökeres a more effective option for a team that values offensive fluidity.
Playing Style: Power vs. Agility
Both players share a power-oriented approach in front of goal, yet their styles differ significantly. Šeško excels in dribbling, boasting a 51.2% success rate on his take-ons. In contrast, Gyökeres is more robust but slightly less agile, with a take-on success rate of just 42.2%.
Šeško has time on his side when it comes to improving his weaknesses. / IMAGO/motivo
Financial Considerations: Cost vs. Potential
Price tags always play a crucial role in a transfer saga, and both strikers come with hefty fees. Gyökeres commands an £85 million release clause, but his club may accept a lower fee around £60 million. Conversely, Šeško’s value has only risen after a contract extension and remarkable performances, with estimates placing his cost around £60 million, potentially skyrocketing to £92.5 million.
Strategic Alignment: Long-Term vs. Immediate Impact
Mikel Arteta faces a crucial decision as he evaluates the future direction of his attack. Should he opt for the proven experience and current form of Gyökeres, or should he gamble on the high potential of Šeško, who could blossom into a top-tier striker for years to come?
Conclusion: Whichever Path Arsenal Chooses
The conclusion remains that irrespective of who comes through the doors at the Emirates, Arsenal is poised to improve their attacking options significantly. Both Šeško and Gyökeres come with their unique strengths and drawbacks, and choosing between them will reflect the club’s ambitions for both the short and long term.
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