Why Arsenal Should Sign Alexander Sørloth as Their Super-Sub Striker Next Season

Arsenal are in the market for a new striker this summer, with Alexander Isak and Benjamin Šeško as the primary targets. Either would be a major upgrade, providing the Gunners with a high-level goal scorer who fits Mikel Arteta’s tactical vision. However, Arsenal’s need for depth goes beyond signing one marquee forward.

With Gabriel Jesus sidelined long-term due to an ACL injury and Kai Havertz now suffering a hamstring issue, Arsenal’s striker options are worryingly thin. Arteta has spent the last two seasons experimenting with different profiles up top, yet none have truly cemented themselves as a dominant presence. If Arsenal want to compete across the Premier League and Champions League, they need a reliable secondary striker who can provide a different dimension to their attack.

That’s where Alexander Sørloth comes in. The 6’5” Norwegian forward, currently enjoying a strong season at Atlético Madrid, is one of the most effective super-subs in Europe. Signing Sørloth alongside Isak or Šeško would give Arsenal exactly what they need: a rotational striker who can provide late-game goals, aerial dominance, and a unique tactical alternative when needed.

Sørloth’s Super-Sub Prowess

One of Arsenal’s key weaknesses this season has been their lack of a reliable impact striker off the bench. When games are tight, and intricate build-up play isn’t working, Arsenal have struggled to find a different route to goal. Sørloth, however, has thrived in these situations at Atlético Madrid.

• No player in Europe’s top five leagues has scored more goals off the bench than Sørloth this season (8).
• He ranks in the 99th percentile for goals per 90 minutes (0.97) in La Liga.
• He consistently finds space inside the box and converts chances with high efficiency.
• His ability to hold up play and attack crosses makes him a perfect option when Arsenal needs a Plan B.

Arsenal currently lack a striker who can win headers, bully defenders, and provide an aerial presence in the box. Sørloth would give them that option without requiring a drastic shift in tactics.

Why Arsenal Needs Depth Beyond One Elite Striker

Even if Arsenal secure Isak or Šeško, relying on just one elite striker would be a mistake. Squad rotation is essential, especially when competing at the highest level in multiple competitions.

• Gabriel Jesus will need significant recovery time after his ACL injury.
• Kai Havertz could be moved back into midfield.
• Arsenal’s fixture congestion will require multiple reliable forwards to maintain squad balance.

In previous seasons, Arsenal have over-relied on one starting striker and have lacked a reliable alternative in certain matches. Arteta’s system works best when the squad has multiple forward options, allowing him to rotate based on form, opponent, and tactical approach.

Sørloth is not just a backup option—he would be a legitimate alternative in certain matchups where Arsenal needs a more physical presence up front.

Sørloth’s Strengths & Statistical Case for Arsenal

Sørloth has quietly put together an outstanding season at Atlético Madrid, proving himself to be one of La Liga’s most effective goal scorers. His numbers show exactly why he would be a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad.

2024/25 Season Stats (All Competitions):

• 45 appearances | 18 goals | 5 assists
• La Liga: 11 goals in 25 matches (0.97 goals per 90, 99th percentile)
• Champions League: Limited minutes but effective hold-up play and pressing
• Aerial duels won per 90: 6.43 (99th percentile)
• Shot conversion rate: 31.25% (93rd percentile)
• Shots on target per 90: 1.90 (99th percentile)

These stats highlight his clinical finishing, physical presence, and ability to change games when called upon. His aerial ability, in particular, makes him a standout option for a team like Arsenal that lacks a dominant header of the ball.

Tactical Fit at Arsenal: What Sørloth Brings to Arteta’s System

Arteta’s system is built on positional play and structured attacks, but Arsenal have often struggled against deep-lying defensive teams. When teams sit back and deny space in the penalty area, Arsenal’s usual approach—short passes, intricate movement—can become ineffective.

Sørloth offers something entirely different from both Isak and Šeško.

How Sørloth Fits Into Arsenal’s Tactical Plan:

• Alternative to Short-Passing Play: When Arsenal struggles to break down a low block, Sørloth provides an option for crosses and set-piece dominance.
• Late-Game Impact: Arteta has often had no game-changing striker to bring on late—Sørloth thrives in these situations.
• Allows Havertz to Move Back to Midfield: If Arsenal signs Sørloth, Havertz could revert back to the midfield role Arteta first envisioned for him.
• Champions League & Cup Rotation: Having a reliable secondary striker is crucial for a club fighting on multiple fronts.

Sørloth is not a high-pressing forward, but that’s not what Arsenal needs from him. His role would be to offer a unique attacking option in specific tactical situations.

Financially Smart: A Cost-Effective Squad Boost

Signing Isak or Šeško will require a massive transfer fee—Isak’s price tag is expected to be over £100M, and Šeško’s release clause is around €50-60M. Arsenal will need to spend big to land their preferred No.9.

Sørloth, however, would be a low-cost, high-value addition.

• Estimated transfer fee: €25-30M
• Low risk: Proven goal scorer, experienced in multiple leagues.
• Won’t demand a starting role: Happy to be part of a rotation.

Instead of keeping an unproven backup striker, Arsenal can invest in a reliable, experienced No.9 who can deliver in key moments.

Final Verdict: Why Arsenal Should Sign Sørloth

Arsenal can’t afford to rely on one elite striker next season—depth and tactical flexibility are key. Sørloth would be the perfect secondary option to complement a big-name signing like Isak or Šeško.

• Elite off the bench – Proven super-sub, 8 goals as a substitute this season.
• Tactical diversity – A different profile from Arsenal’s other forwards.
• Allows Havertz to return to midfield – Improves balance across the squad.
• Affordable & low-risk – Cost-effective way to strengthen the attack.
• Fits Arsenal’s long-term squad planning – Adds depth for multiple competitions.

Sørloth wouldn’t be a flashy signing, but he would be an incredibly effective one. If Arsenal want to challenge for major trophies next season, they need more than just one marquee striker—they need smart, complementary signings who fill key tactical gaps.

Sørloth does exactly that.