Arsenal ‘Confident’ in Securing First Summer Signing in £54m Deal – Report | OneFootball

Arsenal Confident of Securing Benjamin Sesko in Summer Transfer

Arsenal are increasingly confident of landing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to reports. The Slovenian international, who has been on the Gunners’ radar for some time, is expected to leave Germany if his release clause is met.

Sesko, just 21, has caught the eye with his impressive performances in the Bundesliga, registering 15 goals in 30 appearances this season. His goals against giants like Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, and Juventus have only added to his growing reputation.

Photo: IMAGO

Arsenal Lead the Race for Sesko

Mikel Arteta’s side have been proactive in identifying a long-term solution for their No. 9 role, with Sesko emerging as the primary target. During a recent appearance on the Market Madness podcast, journalist Ben Jacobs revealed Arsenal are confident about winning the race for his signature.

“Now, Chelsea also like Benjamin Sesko,” said Jacobs. “The good news for Joel [Beya, Arsenal fan] is that I think Arsenal are leading that race. So I can foresee a situation where everyone wants Alexander Isak. He doesn’t leave Newcastle. Arsenal go for Benjamin Sesko. Player’s sold on the project.”

Jacobs further explained that Sesko was already leaning towards Arsenal last summer but ultimately chose to extend his stay at Leipzig. However, with Leipzig aware of his desire to take the next step, a departure this year looks increasingly likely if the €65 million (£54.1m) release clause is triggered.

Sesko’s Attributes Make Him the Perfect Fit

Standing at 6ft 5in, Sesko is a physically dominant striker with technical ability that belies his height. Leipzig teammate Yussuf Poulsen once praised him, saying: “He has everything.” Poulsen went on to name Sesko as the best striker he has ever played alongside, despite sharing a dressing room with top talents like Christopher Nkunku in the past.

Arsenal’s pursuit of Sesko also aligns with Arteta’s long-term vision for the club. The Gunners made a significant move for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins in January, submitting a £60 million bid that was swiftly rejected. Now, Sesko appears to be their top priority.

Competition From Rivals for Sesko’s Signature

While Arsenal are leading the chase, they face competition from Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United. Chelsea are in search of a reliable goalscorer after their struggles in front of goal this season, while United are also in the market for attacking reinforcements.

However, Arsenal’s ability to offer Champions League football, coupled with Arteta’s track record of developing young players, puts them in a strong position.

Photo: IMAGO

Fabrizio Romano, another respected voice in football transfers, echoed this sentiment, recently stating: “Arsenal considered several options, dream options like Benjamin Sesko, almost impossible options like Alexander Isak, who were never going to leave their clubs in January. But Arsenal understood it was almost impossible to make it happen now, so these two names – Isak and Sesko – remain for the summer.”

What Would Sesko Bring to Arsenal?

Sesko’s attributes make him an exciting prospect for Arsenal. His aerial prowess, hold-up play, and ability to score from various situations provide Arteta with a different attacking dynamic. With Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli offering width and creativity from the flanks, Sesko’s presence could give Arsenal the edge in tight games.

Moreover, the comparisons with Erling Haaland during his breakthrough years hint at his potential ceiling. Arsenal fans will hope that Sesko can replicate the kind of impact Haaland has had since arriving in the Premier League.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As Arsenal fans digest the growing speculation surrounding Benjamin Sesko, there’s genuine excitement about what he could bring to North London. The prospect of a physically dominant, technically gifted striker leading the line is mouth-watering.

Sesko has showcased his ability to score against Europe’s elite, and his age suggests he will only improve with time. Arsenal’s attacking play, spearheaded by Saka, Martinelli, and Odegaard, could benefit greatly from having a consistent, mobile target man in the box.

While some might question his lack of Premier League experience, Sesko’s performances in the Bundesliga, particularly in high-stakes games, suggest he can handle the pressure. If the Gunners secure his signature, it could prove to be a transformative signing in their pursuit of domestic and European success.