Arsenal transfer target Benjamin Sesko is locked in talks with the Gunners over his prospective move from RB Leipzig this summer.
The striker has emerged as one of two main candidates for the Gunners, as Arsenal are also in talks to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP.
The two forwards are slightly different in profile, with Andrea Berta left to weigh up the difference in current ability, potential ability, playing style, transfer fees and wages.
While it’s unclear who the sporting director will opt for, Arsenal’s talks with Benjamin Sesko are progressing.
There has, however, been one odd request from the forward, which Arsenal shouldn’t agree to.
Benjamin Sesko requests a release clause in Arsenal contract talks
Arsenal are working hard behind the scenes to land the perfect striker for Mikel Arteta, the one who will take the side to the next level.
Whether that’s Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres is unclear at this moment in time; however, talks are ongoing for both.
There are different challenges for Berta to weigh up, but the discussions with Sesko have thrown up a new conundrum.
That’s because, according to transfer expert Duncan Castles, on the Transfers Podcast, Sesko has requested a release clause in his Arsenal deal if he makes the move.
“I understand that Sesko is asking for an exit clause on any deal he agrees with Arsenal, and he would like that release clause to be set at just 20 percent premium on whatever price Arsenal end up paying Leipzig for the striker.
“Which is quite unusual to ask for when you’re moving from, let’s say, a second-tier European club to a club that’s perceived as a first-tier European club and one of the most financially affluent clubs in European football.
“I think it’s unlikely Arsenal would agree to a deal on those terms.”
Given the lack of release clauses in current deals for those currently at Arsenal, it would suggest it’s the type of model the club don’t wish to work with.
That, in itself, could make the request from Sesko slightly controversial for Berta.
- READ MORE: Jurrien Timber reveals the scary thing Mikel Arteta did after Arsenal injury, it doesn’t look good
Arsenal must not grant the request for Benjamin Sesko’s release clause
Given Arsenal’s need for a striker in the market, it would be easy for Berta to bow to pressure and give that release clause to Sesko.
However, given the position that the club is in, they may be in a stronger position than it seems.
Talks with Gyokeres give them some leverage in discussions, showing that they want to land a striker, but it may not be Sesko.
That could put pressure on him to drop the release clause request.
Given the potential for the striker to reach the top, Arsenal risk the possibility of losing him to a club like Real Madrid, Barcelona or Bayern Munich without the ability to negotiate.
For that reason, it’s clearly a part of the deal they must reject.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
