Summer Football Transfer Window: Top 7 Most Wanted Strikers in the 2025-26 Transfer Market

The centre-forward position is one of high interest among European clubs in the 2025 transfer window, with a lot of top clubs needing a player in that position, but there are only a few names considered to be top class as it stands.

Arsenal are one of the clubs well-documented as needing a striker, and they have been actively searching for one in the market, with Alexander Isak, Benjamin Šeško and Viktor Gyökeres among the names considered.

Recent reports have seen the Gunners agree a deal in principle with Sporting CP for Gyökeres, but it is not entirely done yet. 

Liverpool also need someone in that position due to the sad passing of Diogo Jota and plans to offload Darwin Núñez. 

Here are the most wanted strikers in the transfer market.

David sealed a big-money move to Juventus in July 2025 after impressing in Ligue 1. The Canadian striker enjoyed 33 goal contributions in his final season at Lille, making him a top target for Juventus seeking more firepower. 

His movement, finishing and consistency in one of Europe’s top leagues make him a serious prospect for any team chasing a proven, all-round forward.

With Aston Villa now battling to keep hold of their star man, Watkins enters the 2025 transfer window as one of the most sought-after English strikers in the market.

There has been documented interest from Manchester United and other teams in the Premier League. 

During the last winter window, Arsenal were close to signing the Englishman, but Villa held on to their man, citing that the Gunners did not meet their valuation.

France’s Hugo Ekitiké enjoyed a breakthrough season at Eintracht Frankfurt, prompting interest from Newcastle United. Frankfurt reportedly rejected an €80 million bid and expects over €100 million for the 23-year-old.

Fast, versatile and clinical inside the box, Ekitiké fits the mould of a modern frontman with his physical presence and athleticism. Multiple top European clubs are now circling, making him a key name on every striker shortlist this summer.

Osimhen is one of Europe’s hottest strikers, fresh from a hugely successful spell at Galatasaray. 

Clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and PSG are all tracking him closely. Al Hilal of Saudi Arabia in particular are reported to be ready to activate his €78 million release clause, though reports suggest he is set to stay at Galatasaray permanently.

His mix of strength, pace and lethal finishing has made him a standout striker and a highly coveted asset this summer.

Sweden’s Viktor Gyökeres is firmly in the transfer spotlight after 52 goal involvements last season. Arsenal have reportedly held talks and have agreed in principle with Sporting. 

Known for his work rate, finishing and tactical intelligence, Gyökeres fulfils the role of a versatile forward capable of linking play and performing under pressure. His mix of goals and movement makes him a valuable striker for top clubs.

Šeško, at just 21, has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising strikers. Now at RB Leipzig, he scored 21 goals and provided six assists across the 2024–25 season. 

Several elite Premier League clubs, such as Arsenal, Manchester United, and Chelsea, are in the race, with his release clause estimated to be between €65m and €85m.

Towering at 1.95 m, Šeško combines physicality, speed, and technical ability, making him well-suited to the fast pace of the Premier League.

Isak tops the list after a sensational season at Newcastle, finishing as the club's top scorer with 27 league goals, winning the Premier League Player of the Month in December, and helping secure a Carabao Cup title.

Liverpool are preparing a British-record £120–130 million bid, though Newcastle insist he is not for sale

Isak's pace, intelligent movement, aerial prowess, and composure have made him perhaps the most in-demand striker of the summer.