According to the Times, Arsenal are intensifying their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko, the highly-rated 21-year-old Slovenian striker from RB Leipzig, as Mikel Arteta seeks to address the Gunners’ struggles in attack.
With injuries to key players like Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka, and Kai Havertz struggling to find consistency, Sesko has emerged as Arsenal’s priority target in the January transfer window.
The Gunners were heavily linked with Sesko last summer but missed out when he extended his contract with Leipzig, including an informal understanding that he could leave for around £60 million in the summer of 2025.
However, Leipzig would demand a significantly higher fee to part ways with their star striker in January, as Sesko has scored 13 goals this season, including five in his last five Bundesliga matches.
Sesko, known for his physical presence, clinical finishing, and ability to stretch defences, is viewed as a long-term solution for Arsenal’s front line. His agent, Elvis Basanovic, has ruled out a loan move, stating, “Sesko is not a player for loans, and this was never a topic with Arsenal or any other club.”
Leipzig’s inconsistent season—currently fourth in the Bundesliga but already eliminated from the Champions League—could play into Arsenal’s favour. Sesko’s development has been steady, and Arsenal, sitting in a strong Premier League position and on course for Champions League knockout football, present an enticing opportunity.
Arteta, however, has expressed caution about financial constraints, stating in regards to reports Arsenal were set to sell Jesus this summer, “A player injured has no value, he cannot perform. On top of that, you have to add somebody else. It’s not easy. We have a plan; we look at how we are going to evolve the squad.”
Despite these challenges, Arsenal appear willing to test Leipzig’s resolve with a bid this month.
Reports from sources such as James McNicholas and David Ornstein suggest that Sesko remains a long-term target for Arsenal, but a summer move may be more likely unless the Gunners can present an offer Leipzig cannot refuse in January.
