Arsenal above all in race to sign Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee

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) today claim that the Dutchman has been a front-row target for the Rossoneri, but Premier League clubs have also moved to sign him.

It is added that the Gunners are ‘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

Mikel Arteta’s side came on the cusp of 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 we don’t believe he would be an upgrade.

The Dutchman has managed 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.

In our view, Arsenal need a more 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 on the back of 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 in 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