Arsenal face €80m hurdle as Leipzig change stance on Striker deal | OneFootball

Benjamin Šeško Transfer Talks Heat Up as Arsenal Chase Striker Solution

Arsenal’s Striker Puzzle

Arsenal are once again dancing on the edge of the transfer tightrope. With a glaring need for a centre-forward, all eyes are on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško. At just 21, the Slovenian striker is commanding attention across Europe – and a hefty price tag to match. The release clause stands at just over €80 million, and as Sky Germany reports, “it’s currently unclear whether Arsenal can even afford the entire package.”

Yet, there’s an urgency at London Colney. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is reportedly prioritising Šeško ahead of other attacking targets. “Viktor Gyökeres (26, Sporting) remains high on Arsenal’s list, but the current focus is on Sesko, partly because coach Mikel Arteta is keen to sign him.”

Leipzig Hold the Cards

Šeško’s stock has risen following a promising season in an otherwise disappointing campaign for Leipzig. As Sky Sport noted, “the Saxons were open to alternative payment structures until recently. This would make Sesko freely negotiable, and Leipzig could push the price up.” Negotiations are still ongoing, but the mood in Germany suggests that Leipzig may now dig their heels in and demand full payment.

Photo: IMAGO

One Bright Light in Leipzig’s Shadows

In a season where Leipzig slipped to seventh and missed out on European football, Šeško offered a glimmer of hope. The 1.95m forward, who joined for €24 million from RB Salzburg, registered 13 goals and five assists in 33 Bundesliga matches. His contract runs until 2029, giving the Red Bulls both leverage and comfort.

Young Talent Worth the Gamble?

Šeško’s age, frame, and scoring return make him a tantalising option. With his physical presence and technical touch, comparisons to early-stage Erling Haaland are inevitable. He won’t come cheap, but for Arsenal, the question may not be whether they can afford him — but whether they can afford not to sign him.

Our View – EPL Index

Expectant Arsenal Fan View

There’s every reason to be excited, but equally to be cautious. Šeško is a powerhouse in the making. Thirteen goals and five assists in his debut Bundesliga season is no small feat, especially in a side that underperformed. He’s got the raw tools — height, pace, and confidence — but is he ready to lead the line for a Premier League title challenger?

The concern lies in Arsenal’s financial hesitation. If they can’t afford €80 million outright, then what’s the plan B? Payment structures may have offered flexibility, but now “Leipzig could push the price up.” That’s not ideal when competition is circling.

Mikel Arteta clearly sees something special — “the current focus is on Sesko” after all — but fans will want this move wrapped up swiftly. Arsenal can’t afford another Vlahović saga. If Šeško is the man to finally replace the ghost of Robin van Persie, then he needs to be wearing red and white by July. Otherwise, rivals will pounce.

A big-money risk? Yes. But Arsenal’s ambitions demand bold moves. Šeško fits the profile — now the club must prove they can meet the price.