Arsenal’s quest to secure RB Leipzig’s star striker Benjamin Sesko has reached a critical juncture, with the Gunners edging closer to a transformative signing that could redefine their attacking prowess for the 2025-26 Premier League season. The 22-year-old Slovenian, long admired by manager Mikel Arteta, has reportedly agreed to personal terms with Arsenal, signaling his intent to join the north London club. However, a significant hurdle remains as Sesko has made a bold contract demand that could complicate negotiations with Leipzig, who are holding firm on a hefty transfer fee. As Arsenal aim to address their goal-scoring woes, this saga underscores their ambition to compete for the Premier League title.
Sesko’s meteoric rise has made him one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards. Standing at an imposing 6ft 5in, he combines blistering pace—clocking 35.47 km/h in the Bundesliga—with technical finesse, scoring 21 goals and providing six assists across all competitions last season, including four in the Champions League. “It is not just the physicality, it is the technical aspect,” said Matej Orazem, sporting director at Sesko’s former club NK Domzale, highlighting the rare blend of attributes that has drawn Arsenal’s interest. Despite Leipzig’s failure to qualify for European football after a seventh-place finish, Sesko’s performances have kept him in the spotlight, with his contract, extended until 2029, featuring a verbal agreement allowing a departure for the right offer.
Arsenal’s pursuit of Sesko is driven by necessity. Injuries to key attackers like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus last season exposed a lack of depth, with no player reaching double figures in Premier League goals. “We need a goal threat and we need the firepower out there,” Arteta declared, emphasizing the urgency to bolster the frontline. Sesko, who rejected a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, is “energised” by the prospect of joining Arsenal, drawn by their Champions League participation and Arteta’s vision for a title-contending squad. His agent, Elvis Basanovic, praised his versatility, noting, “He can play alone in attack, with two strikers, a little further back, he has height, speed, technical speed.” Reports indicate Arsenal have agreed to a five-year contract worth around £200,000 per week, a significant investment in the 22-year-old’s potential.
However, a major sticking point has emerged: Sesko is insisting on a release clause in his Arsenal contract, reportedly set at a 20% premium over the transfer fee, which Leipzig value between £68.4 million and £85.5 million. “I understand that Sesko is asking for an exit clause on any deal he agrees with Arsenal,” transfer expert Duncan Castles revealed, noting that such a demand is “quite unusual” for a move to a financially robust club like Arsenal. The Gunners are reportedly hesitant to include such a clause, wary of committing to a relatively low exit fee for a player of Sesko’s caliber, especially given their long-term investment in his development. Leipzig, keen to maximize their return after missing European football, are holding firm, with some reports suggesting a bid as high as £92.5 million may be required to seal the deal.
Arsenal’s sporting director, Andrea Berta, has been proactive, holding discreet talks with Leipzig’s Marcel Schafer in London to negotiate payment structures. “I have a very good feeling on Sesko moving to Arsenal. Meetings have already taken place,” a German journalist stated, reflecting growing optimism. The Slovenian FA’s decision to rest Sesko for a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina, respecting Leipzig’s concerns about a minor knee injury, has further smoothed the path for discussions. Arsenal’s interest in Sesko has also seen them move away from Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, whose £85 million release clause and ongoing disputes with his club have complicated a potential transfer.
Beyond Sesko, Arsenal are set to announce a £51 million deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, strengthening their midfield alongside Declan Rice. The Gunners are also exploring wingers like Real Madrid’s Rodrygo and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams to provide depth for Saka and Martinelli. With the transfer window in full swing, Arsenal’s calculated approach under Berta and Arteta signals a bold intent to build a squad capable of challenging Liverpool and Manchester City. Sesko’s potential arrival, despite the contract clause hurdle, could be the spark that ignites Arsenal’s title charge, bringing a new era of firepower to the Emirates.
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