Arsenal are pushing to finalise a deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with the transfer fee expected to be worth less than his £67 million release clause, Arsenal Insider understands.
Sesko enjoyed a prolific season for Leipzig, netting 21 goals and registering six assists across all competitions.
These goal-scoring exploits have prompted the Gunners to reignite their interest in the Slovenian, whilst other clubs have also kept tabs on the player.
Andrea Berta whittled Arsenal’s striker shortlist down to Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres in the last couple of weeks, but the latter has now emerged as the North London club’s priority target.
Arsenal are pushing to finalise Benjamin Sesko deal
Mikel Arteta is understood to be a huge admirer of Sesko and his talent, and it looks as though the Spanish manager’s insistence on pursuing the 21-year-old is about to pay off.
Arsenal have decided that Sesko is their man, and are taking all the necessary steps to make the deal happen with RB Leipzig.
The Gunners are progressing in their negotiations with Leipzig, whilst personal terms with the player aren’t expected to be an issue.
Reports emerged last week suggesting that Arsenal are unlikely to trigger Sesko’s £67 million release clause, and Arsenal Insider can confirm that the prospective deal will fall below this fee.
The exact payment terms are yet to be agreed between the two clubs, although it’s likely that a deal will involve a base fee with some performance-related add-ons on top.
Arsenal are increasingly confident that they can secure Sesko, with Berta now accelerating negotiations to secure an agreement.
Is Benjamin Sesko the right choice for Arsenal?
Sesko is an exciting talent, although he has a lot to work on in his game.
The physical attributes are there, with his pace, height and strength all potentially making him a frightening proposition if he can harness other elements of his game.
However, his movement in and around the box, particularly when playing against low blocks, isn’t yet at the level you’d hope for when investing a significant sum into a striker.
| Sesko’s Bundesliga Statistics 2024/25 | |
| Appearances | 33 |
| Goals | 13 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Shots per 90 | 2.50 |
| Expected Goals per 90 | 0.38 |
| Key Passes per 90 | 0.72 |
| Expected Assists per 90 | 0.06 |
He also needs to improve his combination play, often failing to hold the ball up effectively and combine with his teammates when he’s close to the opposition box.
That said, Arsenal already have a competent striker in their ranks in Kai Havertz, and thus can look to slowly integrate Sesko as his game develops.
Receive a digest of our best Arsenal content each week direct to your mailbox
