Arsenal is considering Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, and Hugo Ekitike as alternatives to prevent a bidding conflict over Alexander Isak.

Arteta says guard of honour ‘pain’ could motivate Arsenal next season

Arsenal are set to prioritise a more economical approach in their search for a striker this summer. The Sun reports that the Gunners are keen to avoid a bidding war for Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak. Instead, they may turn their attention to alternatives such as Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, or Hugo Ekitike, alongside their £51 million target, Martin Zubimendi, who is expected to join from Real Sociedad.

According to the paper, “SunSport understands that Arteta is keen to get deals done earlier than usual this summer, especially after the January debacle that saw them spend too long on long-shot targets that they were not able to get over the line.” The first ten days of the summer transfer window are anticipated to see Zubimendi’s arrival, while significant efforts will be made to secure an elite No. 9.

With Manchester United, Liverpool, and Barcelona also eyeing Sesko, Gyokeres, and Isak, it would not be surprising if Arsenal opted for the more affordable options rather than engaging in a protracted bidding war for Isak.

Real Madrid target Saliba

In other news, Real Madrid have reportedly set their sights on Arsenal’s central defender William Saliba, as per the Mirror. The Frenchman is highly valued by the Gunners, who are preparing to offer him a new contract to fend off interest from the Spanish giants.

The report states, “Arsenal are set to offer William Saliba a new contract amid interest from Real Madrid in the player. The Gunners do not want to lose Saliba, who is seen as a key part of their future plans.” Saliba, who last signed a deal in 2023 alongside teammates Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, is now a priority for new sporting director Andrea Berta, with discussions regarding Saka’s future also on the agenda.

Saliba has previously eased concerns about a potential summer exit by indicating he would remain at the Emirates until the club secures a major trophy. However, with Real Madrid’s persistent interest, the pressure is mounting.

Wilshere attracts interest after leaving Norwich

Jack Wilshere has made the decision to leave Norwich City following the club’s choice not to appoint him as their permanent manager. However, The Athletic suggests that the former Arsenal midfielder will not be out of work for long, as interest in him is already building.

The website explains, “Jack Wilshere is leaving Norwich City after the club opted against appointing him as their next head coach.” Wilshere took interim charge of the club’s final two matches of the season, achieving a goalless draw against Middlesbrough and a 4-2 victory over Cardiff City.

With Norwich opting to look externally for their next manager, Wilshere has decided to depart. The 33-year-old plans to take some time to weigh his options before pursuing head coaching opportunities elsewhere.

Alonso expected to sign Real deal

Meanwhile, the Evening Standard has reported that Xabi Alonso is on track to return to Real Madrid as their new manager. With Carlo Ancelotti expected to leave at the end of the La Liga season, Alonso could take the reins ahead of the Club World Cup.

The paper notes, “Xabi Alonso has confirmed he will be leaving his role as Bayer Leverkusen head coach at the end of the season as speculation over replacing Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid heats up.” Despite having two years left on his contract with the Bundesliga side, an early termination has been agreed, allowing Alonso to depart after a successful tenure.

If the reports are accurate, this announcement brings the 43-year-old closer to succeeding Ancelotti, with Spanish publication Marca claiming that the Italian will bid farewell to Los Blancos following their final game of the season against Real Sociedad on May 25. Alonso is reportedly ready to sign a three-year contract to take over the managerial position at the club.