Arsenal are intensifying their search for a top striker this summer, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko emerging as a key target. The Gunners have initiated preliminary talks with the Bundesliga club to understand the terms of a potential deal, although no formal offer has yet been submitted. Leipzig are open to selling the Slovenian international, having missed out on Champions League qualification, and are reportedly valuing him between £68.4 million and £85.5 million.
Sesko, just 22, has had a standout season, scoring 21 goals and providing six assists across all competitions, including four goals in the Champions League. Despite being under contract until 2029, Leipzig appear ready to negotiate, especially given the financial implications of missing out on Europe’s premier competition. Their valuation reflects the current striker market and uses recent transfers of players like Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak as benchmarks.
The young forward is said to be calm about the transfer situation. He is not expected to force a move, but the prospect of joining Arsenal reportedly appeals to him. The North London club had previously explored a deal for Sesko in January but refrained due to an agreement with Leipzig that delayed any departure until the summer.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains keen to bolster his forward line ahead of a critical season that includes a return to the Champions League. Sesko is among the top three striker targets on Arsenal’s list, alongside Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres. However, securing either of the alternatives may prove difficult. Newcastle are reluctant to sell Isak, especially given his importance to their project, while Sporting have publicly denied receiving any offers for Gyokeres. They have also dismissed claims of a release clause that would allow the Swedish striker to leave for £59 million.
Gyokeres, for his part, has remained vague amid mounting speculation, merely stating that most of the ongoing transfer talk is inaccurate. Manchester United and Juventus have also expressed interest in the 26-year-old, further complicating Arsenal’s pursuit.
While the striker situation garners most of the attention, Arsenal are also exploring reinforcements in other areas. The club is reportedly optimistic about landing Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and continues to monitor Real Madrid’s Rodrygo as an option on the wing.
For now, Benjamin Sesko remains the most realistic and strategically suitable choice for Arsenal’s attacking plans. As negotiations evolve and Leipzig show willingness to engage, the coming weeks could prove pivotal in determining whether Sesko dons the red and white at the Emirates next season.
