Arsenal Target 19-goal Striker As Backup Plan For Alexander Isak Pursuit

Image credit: Getty Images

Arsenal have reportedly set their sights on Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike as a potential summer signing if their pursuit of Alexander Isak falls through.

With Mikel Arteta’s side currently trailing Premier League leaders Liverpool by 12 points with nine games remaining, the Gunners are expected to reinforce their attack in the upcoming transfer window. Injuries have severely impacted their frontline, with Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz ruled out for the season, while Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli have also missed key matches.

Arteta has previously voiced his frustration over Arsenal’s failure to sign a forward in January, a decision that has left the squad short of options during their title challenge. Determined not to repeat that mistake, the club has made signing a striker a priority, with Newcastle’s Isak emerging as their primary target.

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However, according to The Sun, Arsenal are also considering Ekitike as a more affordable alternative. The 21-year-old, who has netted 19 goals this season for Frankfurt, is reportedly valued at around £60 million—significantly less than what Newcastle would demand for Isak.

Arsenal - Hugo Ekitike — **Hugo Ekitike (Image credit: Getty Images)**

Ekitike’s performances in Germany have attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United. The France Under-21 international further bolstered his reputation last week with a hat-trick against England’s U21s, highlighting his potential as a top-level forward.

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The young striker is said to favour a move to a Champions League club this summer, with Arsenal and Liverpool among the few English sides likely to guarantee qualification.

Arsenal’s attacking struggles this season have been evident, with their 53 league goals trailing behind Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham. In recent weeks, Mikel Merino has been deployed as a makeshift striker, while Leandro Trossard and teenager Ethan Nwaneri have also been utilised in attacking roles.

With Bukayo Saka back in training after more than three months on the sideline, Arteta could look to reshape his attack ahead of the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals against Real Madrid next month.