Europe’s most wanted strikers and where they could end up | OneFootball

Centre-forwards are set to dominate the 2025 summer transfer window with nearly every major club in Europe searching for a striker.

There’s an abundance of talismanic talents on the market, each with their own unique skillset. We’ve decided to profile some of the most wanted goalscorers in Europe this summer and analyse which club – if any – they could end up at.

Europe’s most wanted strikers and which clubs they could sign for?

Alexander Isak

The name at the top of the list for every superclub, but perhaps the most difficult to sign. Alexander Isak has emerged as one of world football’s best at Newcastle United, where he’s scored 62 goals in 107 games over the last three seasons.

The Swedish striker is the first Newcastle player to reach 20+ goals in consecutive Premier League seasons, an achievement even the great Alan Shearer did not manage at St James’ Park.

Isak combines an ice-cool temperament with elastic footwork and deceptive strength. He’d improve any side in Europe, but Newcastle have no intention of letting him go. There’s been no murmurs of unrest at a Newcastle team heading towards Champions League qualification, while it would take a British record bid at the minimum to persuade the Magpies to the table.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Stays at Newcastle.

Viktor Gyokeres

Nothing turns the heads of recruiters quite like goals and Viktor Gyokeres has not stopped scoring in Portugal. Gyokeres has netted 95 goals in 100 games for Sporting CP over the last two seasons and is charging towards the European Golden Shoe. It’s a phenomenal rate of production from the Swedish striker, who was somehow overlooked by Premier League clubs while at Coventry City.

At 26, he’s ready for a shot at one of Europe’s top five leagues and both Arsenal and Manchester United are admirers. A powerhouse forward with elite ball-carrying and strength, Gyokeres has all the tools to make the step up.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Joins Arsenal.

Benjamin Sesko

Benjamin Sesko has been on the radar of top teams for some time and could leave Leipzig in the summer. The 21-year-old has scored 21 goals in all competitions this season, despite a difficult season for the German side.

Sesko’s release clause has risen to around €80m (£67.4m) but that should not put off suitors. The Slovenian is 6ft 5in, boasts a huge leap and is quick across the ground. Though he’s yet to show he can be truly prolific, he’s undoubtedly one of the best centre-forward prospects in Europe right now.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Stays at RB Leipzig.

Hugo Ekitike

Hugo Ekitike’s excellent season at Eintracht Frankfurt could lead to another mega-sale for the German side. The French forward has shone since joining from Paris Saint-Germain on a permanent deal, to emerge as one of Europe’s most coveted players.

Ekitike has 22 goals in 45 games this season, while he’s been compared to Alexander Isak for his wiry tall frame and smooth dribbling.

While there’s plenty to like about the fleet-footed Frenchman, who also has 10 assists this season, he has the biggest xG underperformance in the Bundesliga this season (-6.8). A chance magnet, but not quite a clinical finisher. That may yet come.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Joins Liverpool.

Hugo Ekitike: The Isak-lite that has Premier League clubs scrambling

Liam Delap

Liam Delap was a rare positive in an otherwise tough return to the Premier League for Ipswich. The Tractor Boys will play Championship football next season but there’s little chance that Delap will join them. With a £30m relegation release clause and impressive 12 goals in the top flight this season, club are queuing up to sign the 22-year-old.

Delap is a powerful presence and brilliant ball-carrier, while he has an old-school sense of bite when it comes to unsettling centre-backs. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, his next move needs to be the right one.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Joins Manchester United.

Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen is a readymade option for any side in world football. The Nigerian failed to secure a permanent move from Napoli last summer but has enhanced his reputation during a surprise sojourn in Turkey. Osimhen has hit 33 goals in 37 games on loan at Galatasaray, with a high-profile move appearing imminent.

A pure poacher with elite athleticism, Osimhen was subject of interest from Chelsea and the Saudi Pro League last summer. Both may renew those pursuits, while Juventus are keen despite Napoli’s reluctance to sell to their rivals. A release clause of €75m appears good value in the current market.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Joins Chelsea.

Jonathan David

Jonathan David’s appeal is boosted by his expiring contract at Lille. For free this summer, one of Ligue 1’s most reliable goal-getters is on the market.

David has scored 109 goals in 231 games for Lille, performed a variety of functions for the French side, and is still yet to hit his peak.

At 25 and with no transfer fee, there’s little better value around this summer.

Our 2025 transfer window prediction: Joins Inter Milan.

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