Arsenal are reportedly on the verge of pulling off one of the most sensational transfer coups of the summer window, making serious headway in their mission to sign rising star Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. In a development dubbed a “major breakthrough,” the Gunners have maneuvered themselves into pole position to land the Slovenian striker, according to multiple sources.
With Mikel Arteta and sporting director Andrea Berta on the hunt for a lethal No. 9, Arsenal’s focus has narrowed in recent weeks, with Sesko emerging as the standout choice. Previously linked alongside Viktor Gyokeres of Sporting CP, Sesko now appears to be the clear frontrunner.
The 22-year-old had a strong season in the Bundesliga, bagging 21 goals and laying on five assists despite Leipzig finishing a disappointing seventh. But now, with eyes set on bigger challenges and a burning ambition to compete at the highest level, Sesko is reportedly eager to leave Germany behind.
According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the deal is close. Speaking with growing certainty, he declared: “I’m totally convinced Sesko will play for Arsenal next season.” That statement sent social media into a frenzy—and with good reason.
Plettenberg added more fuel to the fire via X (formerly Twitter): “Two clubs from Saudi Arabia are pushing to sign Benjamin Sesko! However, his preference is clear: he wants to stay in Europe. Arsenal and Sesko are working on the details to reach an agreement. The deal is on.”
While mega-rich Saudi sides are throwing dizzying sums of cash at the youngster, the Slovenia international is holding firm on his dream to stay in Europe and challenge for top honors in England.
Negotiations haven’t been all smooth sailing. Sesko’s camp has reportedly grown “frustrated” with Leipzig’s unwavering stance on their €80 million valuation—despite an alleged gentleman’s agreement that he’d be allowed to leave for €70 million. However, Arsenal seem ready to bulldoze through the impasse.
According to Football Transfers, talks between Arsenal and Leipzig have escalated positively. The Gunners are now “better placed than ever” to complete the signing. The crux of the breakthrough reportedly lies in the payment structure and fee distribution Arsenal are proposing.
Rather than meeting Leipzig’s upfront demands, Arsenal are said to be preparing a package deal closer to €100 million, cleverly spread out across a longer payment period. A formal bid is expected to land early next week.
Crucially, there appear to be no major sticking points over Sesko’s personal terms. Arsenal are now described as “the only club in advanced talks” with the player.
Former Arsenal defender Mikael Silvestre has given the potential move a glowing review, stating: “I like Benjamin Sesko and he could definitely help Arsenal in their attacking department. It would be a good transfer, especially given their current situation with Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, who both seem to be in and out of the squad, and neither are out-and-out number nines.”
With the deal heating up and Arsenal fans dreaming of a new prolific No. 9, this transfer saga is reaching boiling point. If the bid lands next week as expected, the Emirates could soon be home to one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers—potentially completing one of the most thrilling striker hunts in the club’s modern era.
