Arsenal Make Formal Move for Benjamin Sesko

Arsenal are stepping up their interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko as the hunt for a new striker continues to take shape this summer. According to Sky Germany, the Gunners have now formally approached Leipzig to try and get a deal moving for the highly-rated Slovenian forward.

It’s not the first time Sesko’s name has been on Arsenal’s radar. Back in January, Sky Sports News reported the Gunners were seriously weighing up a move — but his agent shut the door then, sticking to a gentleman’s agreement with Leipzig to stay put at least until the summer. Now that summer’s here, Arsenal are making their move. They’ve made it no secret that they’re looking to bolster their front line ahead of what promises to be a crucial 2025/26 season under Mikel Arteta. Football.london understands that Sesko is firmly on their shortlist, though Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres is also being looked at closely. 

Inside the club, there’s a growing feeling that Sesko is the better long-term bet. At 22, he’s still got room to grow — and many at Arsenal believe his potential is higher than Gyokeres, who’s already 26 and in his prime. That age difference, combined with his standout performances last season, is tipping the scales in Sesko’s favor. However, There’s still some hesitation, mainly around the price tag. Leipzig could demand up to £75 million.  

On the other hand, Gyokeres also won’t come cheap, as he has a release clause of £60 million in his contract. Moreover, there’s a widespread feeling that the Swedish striker may be overpriced, especially since most of his goals came in Portugal — a league where top clubs typically dominate. And that’s one reason why Arsenal have cooled a bit on Gyokeres. 

Arsenal had already made an attempt to land Sesko last summer, but he signed a new deal with Leipzig that keeps him there until 2029. However, Leipzig’s failure to qualify for the Champions League this time around has opened the door for a possible exit. Sesko is coming off an impressive season, scoring 21 goals and providing six assists across all competitions — including four in the Champions League. That kind of form hasn’t gone unnoticed. 

Sporting director Andrea Berta is leading the charge for Arsenal in the transfer window, and there’s a real push to give Arteta the squad depth needed to challenge across all competitions next season. In addition to a striker, the club are also aiming to bring in a back-up goalkeeper, a defender, a central midfielder, and maybe even a wide forward. With Sesko’s name rising to the top of the list, this summer could be the moment Arsenal finally get their man.  

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