As Mikel Arteta works to finish his attack plan before the 2025/26 season, Arsenal have increased their interest in Benjamin Sesko. Identifying the RB Leipzig striker as a top target, the Gunners are now quietly negotiating a deal well below his originally estimated value of €100 million (£84 million).
The club are in the market for a long-term centre-forward to lead the line and are focusing on securing a smart deal early in the summer window. Sesko, 21, is a player the recruitment team admires and could be the headline arrival of Arsenal’s forward line rebuild.
Arsenal have already gathered all the key details surrounding Sesko’s situation in Germany, including potential contract terms and release clause mechanisms. Discussions are ongoing, and while no deal has been agreed, there is optimism that a transfer could be completed for less than £84million.
The Slovenia international only signed a new long-term deal with Leipzig last summer, but a strong 2024/25 campaign has seen interest from elite clubs reignite. Arsenal are keen to act quickly, knowing that delaying talks could allow rivals to re-enter the race. Sesko scored 21 goals and registered six assists in all competitions this past season, firmly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young strikers.
The Gunners view Sesko as a natural fit for Arteta’s system, with the ability to lead the line, stretch defences with his pace, and contribute to build-up play. At 6’5″, his physical profile also offers a different dimension to Arsenal’s existing forward options.
🚨 @FabrizioRomano: “Benjamin Sesko will leave Leipzig this summer, that’s the expectation. Last week, Arsenal had the first concrete talks for Sesko. Arsenal spoke to Leipzig & had conversations with the agent of the player.”
“Arsenal started to understand the whole situation… pic.twitter.com/hkhxhJoBe8
While Sesko remains the club’s priority, Arsenal have also been tracking Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish forward has had a prolific season in Portugal and as per expectations, he will move this summer, with several Premier League clubs monitoring his situation.
🚨 Arsenal have offered Viktor Gyokeres a five-year contract as they look to secure his signature.
(Source: @NicoSchira) pic.twitter.com/5gfe2BkqLi
Arsenal had been exploring the option of Gyokeres as an alternative to Sesko, but recent developments suggest they now focus on the Leipzig star. The club have reportedly moved away from active negotiations with Gyokeres, shifting all attention to Sesko as the preferred option.
This clarity comes at an important time as Arsenal prepare for another title challenge. Gabriel Jesus’ injury record and Kai Havertz’s utility role have left the team in need of a consistent central presence. Signing a dedicated No.9 is one of the top priorities at the Emirates this summer, and Sesko ticks all the right boxes.
Along with freshly appointed sporting director Andrea Berta, Mikel Arteta is trying to guarantee the club’s summer activity is conclusive and effective. Arsenal are looking to get stronger without upsetting the basis of the team that came second in the Premier League now that Champions League football is back.
A forward signing is expected to be the first major incoming, and Sesko’s profile aligns with the club’s strategy of signing players with long-term upside. The Gunners have placed a high value on age, potential resale value, and tactical fit – all qualities that Sesko brings in abundance.
Beyond the striker position, Arsenal also have contract matters to resolve, including extensions for Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri. Lewis-Skelly is reportedly eyed by Real Madrid. However, the striker search remains the most pressing issue as the club seek to avoid another season of makeshift options in the final third.
Benjamin Sesko represents Arsenal’s clearest chance of solving their long-standing striker issue with a player ready to contribute immediately but still years away from his peak. If the club can close a deal below the £84million mark, it would be a major statement of intent ahead of the new campaign.
With talks advancing and the Gunners working quietly but purposefully, fans may not have to wait long before seeing a new No.9 arrive at the Emirates.
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