The race to secure a world-class striker for Arsenal’s 2025/26 Premier League campaign has taken an unexpected twist, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko emerging as the Gunners’ top target over Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres. The transfer saga, already a rollercoaster of negotiations and speculation, was further electrified by a pointed remark from Sesko’s agent, Elvis Basanovic, who appeared to take a subtle swipe at Gyokeres’ approach to forcing a move. As Arsenal aim to bolster their attack after a lackluster 69 goals in the 2024/25 Premier League season, the battle between these two prolific forwards has captivated fans and pundits alike.
Sesko, a 22-year-old Slovenian star, has been a long-term target for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who sees the 6-foot-5 striker as a dynamic, long-term solution to the club’s goal-scoring woes. With 39 goals in 87 appearances for Leipzig, including 21 last season, Sesko’s blend of speed, physicality, and finishing has drawn comparisons to elite forwards like Alexander Isak. Arsenal’s pursuit of Sesko intensified after reports surfaced that the club had reached an agreement on personal terms, though negotiations with Leipzig, who are demanding around £67.4 million, remain ongoing. The Bundesliga side’s failure to qualify for the Champions League has increased the likelihood of Sesko’s departure, but the club is holding firm on their valuation.
Meanwhile, Gyokeres, the 27-year-old Swedish sensation, has been locked in a bitter standoff with Sporting Lisbon. After scoring an astonishing 54 goals and providing 13 assists in 52 appearances last season, Gyokeres believed a gentleman’s agreement allowed him to leave for €70 million (£59 million). However, Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, has refuted this, insisting, “I can guarantee that Viktor Gyokeres will not leave for €60m+10m because I never promised him that.” The escalating tension has seen Gyokeres reportedly refuse clear-the-air talks and threaten to go on strike, prompting accusations of “blackmail” from Varandas. This public dispute has frustrated Arsenal, who have reportedly “frozen” their pursuit of Gyokeres, with sources indicating the club is unwilling to meet Sporting’s €80 million (£67.4 million) asking price for a player unproven in Europe’s top five leagues.
Sesko’s agent, Basanovic, seized the moment to highlight his client’s professionalism, contrasting it with Gyokeres’ tactics. “Even if there may be—or will be—a strong desire of the player to move to a certain club, we will never force or blackmail RB Leipzig,” Basanovic stated. “I believe this is not the right way, because the way you actually exit from a club shows your values. Values that you are bringing into a new club.” He emphasized a respectful approach, adding, “We respect RB Leipzig, and I am 100% convinced RB Leipzig will also respect our decision for the next step when we decide to do it. It could be next week, or next year, or in three years.” This thinly veiled dig at Gyokeres’ camp underscored Sesko’s commitment to handling his potential transfer with integrity, a stance that has reportedly impressed Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta.
The Gunners’ striker search has been a priority since their failure to secure a reliable No. 9 cost them a title challenge last season. While Gyokeres’ prolific record in Portugal made him a strong candidate, his age and lack of top-tier experience have raised concerns about his adaptability. Sesko, younger and with Bundesliga pedigree, is seen as a “project player” with immense potential to grow alongside Arsenal’s core of Bukayo Saka, Martin Ødegaard, and Kai Havertz, whom Arteta still rates highly as a versatile forward. “Sesko is not competing with anyone,” Basanovic insisted. “It’s him vs him every day. We have a clear plan for the future, and media speculation doesn’t affect us.”
The transfer race has also drawn interest from other clubs. Manchester United, despite Gyokeres’ reported preference for Arsenal, have been rebuffed, while Juventus have tabled an £11 million-per-year contract for the Swede. Bayern Munich have entered the fray for Sesko, viewing him as a long-term successor to Harry Kane. However, Arsenal’s groundwork, including advanced talks and Arteta’s admiration for Sesko’s versatility, gives them an edge. The club’s recent signing of Martin Zubimendi for £51 million signals their ambition, but landing a striker remains the final piece of the puzzle.
As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal face a critical decision: invest in Sesko’s potential or navigate the complexities of Gyokeres’ saga. With the Premier League season kicking off against Manchester United, Arteta and Berta are under pressure to deliver a game-changer. Sesko’s camp, with their emphasis on respect and patience, may have tipped the scales, positioning the Slovenian as the frontrunner to lead Arsenal’s charge for glory.
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