‘Above all’: Arsenal have moved to sign Dutch star, leading the race for him | OneFootball

Arsenal are leading AC Milan in the race to sign Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to Italian publication Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Gunners are likely to sign a new centre-forward during the next transfer window. Zirkzee has been constantly linked by the Italian media.

Gazzetta dello Sport (page 16) claim the Dutchman has been a front-row target for the Rossoneri, but Premier League clubs have also moved to sign him.

The Gunners are reportedly ‘above all’ in the pursuit of the 22-year-old, who has a €40 million (£34m) release clause which will become active in June.

Arsenal need a more high-profile striker next term

Arsenal came close to winning the Premier League last season. The club ended up with a slender two-point deficit to champions Manchester City.

The manager will want to close the margin by bolstering his squad further this summer. A marquee striker is required to seriously challenge City for the top-flight title.

Zirkzee has been constantly linked with a transfer, but he would not be an upgrade on their current options.

The Dutchman bagged only 12 goals and seven assists in his second year at Bologna. He recently picked up a hamstring injury which could rule him out for weeks.

Arsenal need a high-profile goalscorer to compete with Pep Guardiola’s side.

If they are looking for a young prospect with huge potential, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko would be a better choice after his 18-goal season at club level.

Comparing their league campaigns, Zirkzee has averaged a goal in every 252 minutes. Sesko has been way better, scoring every 109 minutes in the Bundesliga.

Sesko has a higher release clause of £55m, but he could prove value for money. Arsenal need to be quick in their pursuit with Leipzig aiming to cancel the clause with an improved contract.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.