Major club objectives, valuable acquisitions, and surprise picks – Analyzing the significant striker transfers of the summer.

As the March international window draws to a close, football fans across England are already casting their eyes towards the summer transfer window. The anticipation is palpable, particularly with a host of high-profile strikers potentially on the move as clubs look to enhance their attacking options for the next season.

In light of this, we reached out to our colleagues at Opta to analyse the statistics of several strikers who could be making headlines this summer. The players in question include Julian Alvarez, Mateo Retegui, Liam Delap, Viktor Gyokeres, Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, Alexander Isak, Jonathan David, Victor Osimhen, Dusan Vlahovic, Samu Aghehowa, Darwin Nunez, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

We’ve sorted these players into tiers based on their potential contributions to new teams and the types of clubs that should be eyeing their signatures. All statistics referenced pertain to league play this season.

Every big club should be looking at them

Viktor Gyokeres (Sporting CP) stands out with remarkable stats: 30 goals (1st), 72.5 minutes per goal (1st), and a 27.5% shot conversion rate (2nd). His performance this season has been nothing short of exceptional, making him a prime target for the elite clubs.

Alexander Isak (Newcastle United) has also made a significant impact, with 24 goals and assists combined (3rd) and 158 touches in the opposition box (2nd). His experience in both La Liga and the Premier League adds to his appeal, although Newcastle will be reluctant to let him go without a hefty fee.

Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid) boasts a 66.7% big chance conversion rate (1st) and has won possession 57 times (3rd). His all-around game makes him a valuable asset, and while Atletico may be tough negotiators, financial pressures could force a sale.

The value buys

Jonathan David (Lille) is another name to watch, with 17 goals and assists (6th) and an impressive 82.1% passing accuracy (1st). With his contract expiring at the end of the season, he represents a potential bargain for clubs looking to strengthen without breaking the bank.

Liam Delap (Ipswich Town) is a player with immense potential, despite being relatively unproven. His stats indicate promise, and should Ipswich face relegation, he could become a target for clubs seeking a cost-effective option.

Bolts from the blue

Mateo Retegui (Atalanta) has made a name for himself with 26 goals and assists (2nd) and a 29% shot conversion rate (1st). His impressive stats following a mixed debut season in Europe make him an intriguing prospect, although strikers from Atalanta have had mixed success elsewhere.

Matheus Cunha (Wolverhampton Wanderers) is relentless in his approach, ranking high in chances created and total touches. While there are questions about his ability to perform at the highest level, his dynamic style could attract interest from clubs looking for a different profile.

The wildcard

Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, on loan from Napoli) is a name that has slipped under the radar following a tumultuous transfer saga. With a release clause in his Napoli contract, he could be set for a move to England this summer. His stats suggest he still has the potential to be a top-tier striker, making him a player to watch closely.

Wait one more year?

Benjamin Sesko (RB Leipzig) and Samu Aghehowa (FC Porto) are two younger talents who have yet to fully realise their potential. Both players may benefit from another year of development before making a significant move.

Buy (or loan) low

Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus), Darwin Nunez (Liverpool), and Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Everton) are all entering the final year of their contracts, and their current stats reflect struggles at their respective clubs. Each represents a potential reclamation project for teams willing to take a chance on reviving their careers.

As the summer transfer window approaches, the landscape of English football could be set for a shake-up, with these strikers at the forefront of many clubs’ plans. The excitement is building, and it promises to be a summer to remember.