As the countdown to the new Premier League season ticks under a month, the race to secure a top-tier striker is heating up—and fast. While Chelsea have made early moves to bolster their attack, several Premier League heavyweights are still circling, eager to land a goalscoring gem before the window slams shut.
Let’s break down the current striker market: who’s nearly signed, who’s being chased, and who could be the wildcard late swoop.
Almost Off the Market
Viktor Gyökeres (Sporting Lisbon)
Arsenal’s long search for a clinical finisher may finally be nearing its end. The Gunners are closing in on a £63.5 million deal for Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres—one of Europe’s most prolific strikers. The 27-year-old Swede, who netted a staggering 97 goals in 102 appearances for the Portuguese club, is poised to be Arsenal’s solution up front. If sealed, this could mark the end of their striker pursuit.
Victor Osimhen (Napoli)
Once linked with Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea, Victor Osimhen’s next destination might come as a surprise. Napoli are reportedly in talks with Galatasaray to make the Nigeria international’s loan move permanent. Osimhen, who played a vital role in Napoli’s 2022-23 Serie A title win, enjoyed a successful stint in Turkey last season. However, a breakdown in negotiations could quickly revive Premier League interest.
Wanted Men
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United)
Isak is one of the hottest names on the striker radar. Newcastle insist the Swedish international isn’t for sale—but Liverpool’s growing interest suggests otherwise. The Reds are reportedly prepared to break the British transfer record to secure his signature, with a deal potentially worth up to £130 million.
Hugo Ekitike (Eintracht Frankfurt)
Ekitike is fresh off the best season of his career, having scored 15 goals and delivered 8 assists for Frankfurt. Both Newcastle and Liverpool have made inquiries, though Chelsea—who were previously keen—may now be out of the running after signing Joao Pedro and Liam Delap. Frankfurt already turned down a £70 million bid from Newcastle, but the player remains on multiple shortlists.
Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)
Manchester United are keen on Mbeumo, with a move worth over £60 million reportedly close. Spurs are also circling, and several Champions League clubs across Europe are monitoring the situation. If United move quickly, this could be a done deal before the weekend.
Yoane Wissa (Brentford)
Tottenham are also eyeing Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who notched 20 goals last season. With his former boss Thomas Frank now in charge at Spurs, a reunion could be on the cards. Newcastle and Liverpool are keeping tabs, but Wissa isn’t their top target—at least for now.
Ones to Watch
Benjamin Šeško (RB Leipzig)
Šeško looked destined for Arsenal earlier this summer, but Gyökeres’ arrival has altered that path. The 22-year-old Slovenian is still on the radar of Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool. With an £85 million price tag, any move would likely happen later in the window.
Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
Arsenal failed to land Watkins in January after Villa rejected a £40 million bid. Now, Liverpool and United are keeping a close watch on the England striker. Villa won’t be eager to sell, but a late blockbuster bid could test their resolve.
Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace)
Palace are desperate to keep hold of Mateta after his 17-goal season and FA Cup heroics. With interest rising, the Frenchman could yet be tempted away—unless Palace can tie him down with a new contract.
Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
Jackson led Chelsea’s line last season with 10 goals, but the arrivals of Pedro and Delap could shake up his role. If he becomes surplus to requirements, expect a queue of Premier League and European clubs to form.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Free Agent)
Calvert-Lewin is now a free agent after leaving Everton. Newcastle and Manchester United are reportedly weighing up short-term offers for the 28-year-old, who could be a bargain pick-up for a club in need of proven Premier League experience.
Final Whistle
The striker merry-go-round is spinning, and there’s still plenty of movement to come. While some clubs are close to finalizing deals, others are holding out for the perfect fit—or the perfect price. Expect twists, hijacks, and last-minute drama as Premier League teams scramble to secure their goal machine before the new season kicks off.
Who will land their No. 9 in time? Stay tuned. The striker race is just getting started.
