RB Leipzig make significant decision on Benjamin Sesko with Arsenal transfer links firmly in mind

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Heading into the summer transfer window, Benjamin Sesko is one of several attacking targets Arsenal are keeping close tabs on.

The Slovenian has been on the Gunners’ radar for some time now, with strong links first emerging ahead of the 2024 summer transfer window.

Among other forwards, Arsenal are also interested in Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon, with an out-and-out number nine being a clear priority for Mikel Arteta and new Sporting Director Andrea Berta.

However, it now appears that Sesko could be moving to the top of the Gunners’ list following an announcement by RB Leipzig.

Benjamin Sesko left out of RB Leipzig squad for club’s final game of 2024/25 season

As reported by German outlet Bild, Leipzig are currently in Brazil for a post-season tour.

While due to play Santos in their final game of the 2024/25 campaign, the club omitted Sesko from their squad.

In part, this is because the Slovenian missed Tuesday’s training session ‘due to a slight knee irritation.’

However, Bild continue that ‘RB Leipzig will not take any risks with the top striker’ because Sesko is ‘the club’s hottest asset and will most likely make the jump to an absolute top club this summer.’

The decision to omit the striker therefore stems from concern that an injury could scupper a summer transfer, with a big-money move away from the Bundesliga looking ever more likely.

Indeed, Arsenal and Manchester United are quoted by Bild as being ‘particularly interested’ in Sesko, with the Red Devils sending their Director of Recruitment, Christopher Vivell, to watch the 21-year-old play against Wolfsburg in April.

In a positive development for Arsenal, Sesko has revealed he would be open to joining the club as well.

Viktor Gyokeres must be prioritised ahead of Benjamin Sesko, but Arsenal should sign two strikers

Bild continue in their report that RB Leipzig will be looking for offers between €70m and €100m (£59m and £84m) for their star striker.

By comparison, Gyokeres could be available for less than £55m.

Considering the Swede has been far more prolific than Sesko in recent seasons, he should be prioritised this summer.

Nevertheless, it seems that Arsenal are currently split between Sesko and Gyokeres, having not yet confirmed which striker they are prioritising.

While very unlikely to sign both, it would be some statement of intent for Arsenal to bring two new strikers to the Emirates this summer.

Considering the Gunners’ lack of cutting edge in critical moments during the 2024/25 season, a reason behind Arteta’s side’s squandering of a Premier League high 21 points from winning positions, most Arsenal fans would probably agree this wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world.

To this end, the club could also move for the likes of Ollie Watkins or Dusan Vlahovic, any striker who would give the club some much-needed strength in depth.