In a thrilling development for Arsenal fans, the Gunners are on the verge of securing a blockbuster transfer for RB Leipzig’s star striker Benjamin Sesko, with negotiations reportedly reaching a pivotal stage. The 22-year-old Slovenian, a long-term target for manager Mikel Arteta, has emerged as the cornerstone of Arsenal’s ambitious plans to bolster their attacking line for the 2025-26 Premier League season. Despite Leipzig’s initial reluctance, the Bundesliga club’s recent social media activity and behind-the-scenes talks suggest they are warming to a deal potentially worth up to £88.5 million, a move that could transform Arsenal’s title aspirations.
Sesko’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric. Standing at an imposing 6ft 5in, the young forward combines blistering pace—clocking a top speed of 35.47 km/h in the Bundesliga—with technical finesse and a knack for finding the net. Last season, he delivered 21 goals and six assists across all competitions, including four in the Champions League, despite Leipzig’s disappointing seventh-place finish, which saw them miss out on European football. His performances have drawn comparisons to elite strikers like Alexander Isak, with Leipzig valuing him between £68.4 million and £85.5 million, though some reports suggest a fee closer to £88.5 million has been agreed upon. “It is not just the physicality, it is the technical aspect,” said Matej Orazem, sporting director at NK Domzale, Sesko’s former club, highlighting the rare blend of attributes that make him a coveted talent.
Arsenal’s interest in Sesko is long-standing, with the club having pursued him last summer only for him to sign a new contract with Leipzig until 2029. However, the absence of Champions League football at Leipzig has shifted the dynamics, making the club more open to a sale. Recent reports indicate that Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta held a discreet meeting with Leipzig’s Marcel Schafer in London to discuss payment structures, signaling serious intent. “I have a very good feeling on Sesko moving to Arsenal,” said a prominent German football journalist, reflecting the growing optimism around the transfer. Sesko himself is reportedly “energised” by the prospect of joining Arsenal, drawn by the club’s Champions League participation and Arteta’s vision for a title-challenging squad.
The Gunners’ pursuit of Sesko comes after a season marred by injuries to key attackers like Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, exposing a lack of depth in their frontline. Arteta has been vocal about the need for a prolific striker, stating, “We need a goal threat and we need the firepower out there.” Sesko’s versatility—capable of playing as a lone striker or in a two-forward system—makes him an ideal fit for Arsenal’s fluid attacking style. His agent, Elvis Basanovic, praised his adaptability, noting, “He can play alone in attack, with two strikers, a little further back, he has height, speed, technical speed.” This skill set has also attracted interest from Chelsea, Manchester United, and Juventus, but Arsenal have emerged as the frontrunners, reportedly agreeing on personal terms for a five-year deal.
Leipzig’s recent social media post, showcasing Sesko’s skills in a challenge video, was interpreted by some as a fond farewell, though the club remains calm about his valuation. “Leipzig’s plan is clear: they want to generate more than €80m from a transfer of Benjamin Sesko,” a source close to the negotiations revealed, underscoring the club’s intent to maximize their return. The Slovenian FA’s decision to rest Sesko for a friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina, respecting Leipzig’s concerns about a minor knee injury, further smoothed the path for talks, ensuring the striker’s fitness for a potential move.
Arsenal’s transfer strategy extends beyond Sesko, with the club close to finalizing a £51 million deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and exploring options like Real Madrid’s Rodrygo for a winger role. However, Sesko’s potential arrival is the centerpiece, a statement signing to address the goal-scoring woes that saw no Arsenal player reach double figures last season. Unlike Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, another target who scored 97 goals over two seasons but is considered overpriced, Sesko represents a long-term investment at 22. His preference for Arsenal over other suitors, including a rejected offer from Saudi Arabia’s Al Hilal, speaks volumes about his ambition to compete at the highest level.
As the transfer window heats up, Arsenal fans are buzzing with anticipation. Sesko’s blend of youth, physicality, and goal-scoring prowess could be the missing piece in Arteta’s quest for Premier League glory. With negotiations nearing a conclusion, the Emirates Stadium is poised to welcome a new star, ready to ignite their title challenge.
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