The summer transfer window of 2025 promises an exciting array of top-tier forwards, with clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle, and Chelsea keenly observing the market. Here’s a comprehensive look at the most promising and available striking talents, each bringing unique qualities to the table.
Emerging Attacking Powerhouses for 2025
10. Jack Grealish (Manchester City)
While there are promising young forwards such as Jamie Gittens, Antony, Kenan Yildiz, Johan Bakayoko, and Tyler Dibling vying for attention, Jack Grealish remains a standout. His reputation is bolstered not only by his Premier League experience but also by his proven ability to excel under the right managerial guidance. Once a dynamic, electrifying winger at Aston Villa, Grealish’s move to Manchester City saw his flamboyance diminish, transforming him into a more conservative, possession-oriented midfielder. Despite this, his creative potential remains undeniable, and a return to his former self could make him a valuable asset for any top club.
Current statistics show that Grealish’s influence has waned under Pep Guardiola, but his talent is still evident. Clubs seeking a versatile attacker with Premier League pedigree should keep a close eye on him, especially as he seeks to reclaim his attacking flair.
For more insights, see: Ranking the 17 Premier League signings over £70m in 2025
9. Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)
Having netted 11 goals and provided six assists across 37 Premier League appearances, Antoine Semenyo has attracted significant interest. The Ghanaian forward, aged 25, is seen as a potential future star for Tottenham Hotspur, especially with their Champions League ambitions. Rumors suggest Bournemouth might demand around £70 million for his services-an inflated valuation considering his current market worth. Nevertheless, Manchester United are unlikely to be lured into a bidding war, especially with other transfer priorities and the recent departure of Liam Delap to Chelsea.
Semenyo’s raw talent and goal-scoring ability make him a compelling target for clubs seeking a young, versatile striker capable of making an immediate impact.
8. Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad)
With a release clause of approximately €58 million (£50.2 million), Kubo’s future remains uncertain. Real Madrid holds a 50% sell-on clause, which could allow the Japanese winger to be acquired for around £25 million if the Spanish giants decide to sell. However, Madrid’s current attacking depth-featuring Arda Güler and Brahim Diaz-limits their urgency to offload him.
Despite a modest tally of five goals and zero assists in 36 La Liga matches during 2024/25, Kubo’s creative prowess and dribbling skills position him as a high-potential asset. His ability to unlock defenses and his impressive key pass count-75 across Europe’s top five leagues-highlight his offensive threat. Premier League clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City are reportedly monitoring his situation, eyeing him as a future star.
7. Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Is Rashford still a genuine elite striker? Many believe so, especially after his impressive loan spell at Aston Villa reignited his confidence and form. His resurgence underscores the importance of self-belief and happiness in unlocking a player’s true potential. Historically, Manchester United has been a challenging environment for some players, yet Rashford’s recent performances suggest he could thrive again at the highest level.
Financial constraints and wage demands pose hurdles, with only a handful of clubs capable of affording his salary. His recent contract extension and the Villa revival hint at a possible move abroad, but an intra-Premier League transfer remains a real possibility. His talent and recent form make him a hot commodity in the transfer market.
6. Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich)
As a free agent, Leroy Sane presents an attractive option for top clubs. His Premier League experience with Manchester City adds to his appeal, though he has not played in England since 2020. At 29, he’s just a year younger than Raheem Sterling was at the end of his City tenure. Reports suggest Tottenham and Arsenal are interested, with Sane’s wage demands likely to be significant given his free-agent status.
While the absence of a transfer fee is appealing, clubs must consider the long-term contract and salary commitments. Nonetheless, Sane’s proven quality makes him a valuable addition for teams aiming to bolster their attacking options without a transfer fee.
5. Rayan Cherki (Lyon)
The French prodigy’s versatility across the front line makes him a highly sought-after talent. His impressive stats this season-12 goals and 20 assists in 44 appearances, including 11 assists and 8 goals in Ligue 1-highlight his creative and scoring prowess. Cherki’s ability to deliver key passes (75 across Europe’s top leagues) underscores his playmaking talent.
Recent reports indicate Lyon is open to a significant sale, with no official open clause in his contract. Clubs like Borussia Dortmund are monitoring his situation, and Manchester City are also interested, especially as they prepare for life after Kevin De Bruyne, who is expected to join Napoli on a free transfer.
4. Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford)
With an impressive tally of 20 Premier League goals this season, Mbeumo’s goal-scoring ability and versatility make him a prime target. At 25, he’s experienced and capable of playing across the front line. With only a year remaining on his contract, Brentford may be tempted to sell at a reasonable price.
Top clubs like Arsenal, Newcastle, and Manchester United have shown interest. Mbeumo’s ability to operate on the right flank and his proven goal-scoring record make him an ideal addition for teams seeking attacking reinforcements.
3. Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao)
Despite a hefty €50 million (£45 million) release clause, the total package-including wages and bonuses-makes Nico Williams a costly acquisition. Barcelona has already stepped back from negotiations, and Arsenal and Chelsea have yet to commit. His standout performance at Euro 2024 and consistent goal contributions-five goals and five assists last season-highlight his potential.
Williams’s talent is undeniable, and he’s ready for a step up to a bigger league. His pace, dribbling, and attacking instincts position him as a future star for top European clubs.
Top Transfer Targets for 2025
2. Rafael Leao (AC Milan)
Leao’s future at Milan appears uncertain, with rumors suggesting he may seek a move away. Chelsea’s interest seems to have cooled, especially with their focus on new signings like Estevao and Kendry Paez. Arsenal’s need for a left winger is evident, especially after missing out on Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, who joined PSG.
Manchester City, with Grealish potentially departing, and Newcastle or Liverpool could also be options. Leao’s dynamic style and goal-scoring ability make him a perfect fit for clubs looking to add a potent attacking threat.
1. Rodrygo (Real Madrid)
If Arsenal manages to secure Rodrygo, it would be a significant coup, reminiscent of Alexis Sanchez’s move. The Brazilian winger, a proven winner with two Champions League titles and three La Liga trophies, is currently overshadowed by Madrid’s focus on Mbappe, Bellingham, and Vinicius Jr.
Rodrygo’s skill set-elite dribbling, goal-scoring, and playmaking-makes him an ideal candidate for a top European club seeking a star to lead their attack. His potential move could redefine his career, and English clubs are well-positioned to offer him the platform he deserves.
For more insights, see: How Andrea Berta could invest £300m to help Arsenal clinch the Premier League title
