Arsenal encouraged to forget Benjamin Sesko and sign Premier League throwback striker

Arsenal icon Emmanuel Petit has advised his former club to sign Napoli's Victor Osimhen instead of RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko.

Petit lifted the double with the Gunners in his debut season after joining in 1997. And now he's shared his thoughts on Arsenal's transfer strategy as they aim to close the gap to reigning champions Manchester City.

With Sesko committing his future to Germany by signing a new deal, Petit feels the striker shouldn't be top of Arsenal's list. Even with Kai Havertz's goals bolstering Arsenal's attack, the team has been missing a definitive number nine for years.

While Sesko was initially the top target before his contract extension, Petit is convinced that Osimhen is the key to enhancing Arsenal's forward line. He also highlights Nico Williams, one of the standout players at Euro 2024, as another potential asset to Mikel Arteta's squad, reports the Mirror.

Speaking to bet365, Petit explained: "Arsenal's dream signing this summer would be Nico Williams. I've been watching him in Spain with his club, but he has impressed me a lot during Euro 2024, especially against Italy. It was a nightmare for the right back. I think he could have a huge impact at Arsenal.

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"People have also mentioned Benjamin Sesko, but I think Arsenal need to look at Victor Osimhen at Napoli, this guy has all the character he needs to thrive.

"He's got great ambition and when I mention his character, he reminds me of players who were in the Premier League back in the day, huge characters.

"He will work incredibly hard on the pitch and Arsenal are desperate to get a real striker. Osimhen can hold two central defenders easily. He can play on the ground, he can play in the air. It will be important as well on set pieces. He would add quality to Mikel Arteta's team."

Osimhen has been linked with both Chelsea and Manchester United, as well as some other top European clubs, but the ex-Arsenal midfielder is hoping that he'll be gracing the Emirates next season.