Rio Ferdinand has urged Arsenal to prioritize signing Alexander Isak over Martin Zubimendi this summer, believing the Swedish striker could be the key to winning the Premier League. Arsenal’s title hopes have been dented by key injuries in attack, with Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz sidelined and Gabriel Martinelli also missing games in recent weeks.
The Gunners have struggled to maintain their challenge against Liverpool and Manchester City, with their failure to sign a top-class centre forward last summer and in January proving costly. Despite 11 games still left in the season, recent setbacks against West Ham United and Nottingham Forest have weakened their chances of lifting the title.
Newcastle United’s Isak has long been on Arsenal’s radar, but the Magpies’ high asking price could make a deal difficult. However, Ferdinand believes that if the Gunners have the opportunity to sign the prolific forward, they must take it, as he could be the final piece in Mikel Arteta’s puzzle to secure the league crown.
Ferdinand highlighted Arsenal’s long-standing need for a proper No.9, emphasizing that Isak’s presence would give the team a new dimension in attack. He stated that Arsenal have built a strong squad but require that extra firepower to push them over the line in a competitive title race.
While Arsenal are expected to strengthen in multiple areas this summer, reports suggest they have already secured a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi in a £51 million move. The midfielder previously turned down Liverpool’s interest and has also been on Manchester City’s radar following his performances at last summer’s European Championship.
Zubimendi’s arrival would add to Arsenal’s midfield options, but Ferdinand is not convinced he should be a priority signing for the club. With Thomas Partey expected to leave at the end of the season, Arsenal may see midfield reinforcements as necessary, but Ferdinand insists their biggest need remains in attack.
Arsenal previously signed Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, and their midfield already looks well-stocked. However, if Partey departs, they may feel justified in adding another player to the center of the pitch, despite Ferdinand’s reservations about prioritizing Zubimendi.
As Arsenal prepares to face Manchester United on Sunday, discussions over their summer transfer plans continue. The club will need to decide whether their primary focus should be on bolstering their midfield or making a major push to sign a world-class striker like Isak to finally end their title drought.