Arsenal are reportedly nearing a deal for their top target, Benjamin Sesko, as they are now prepared to invest heavily in a striker following a strong push from Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners had identified Sesko as their primary target during the summer transfer window in their search for a new striker. However, the deal did not materialize as the 21-year-old chose to stay with Bundesliga club RB Leipzig for another year.
Sesko, a standout young forward in Europe, was not replaced by Arsenal in the summer, which has proven to be a potential misstep. The team has struggled with scoring this season, relying heavily on Bukayo Saka and set pieces.
Initially, it was thought that Arsenal would wait until the summer to sign a new striker, but Gabriel Jesus’ injury might prompt an earlier move, leaving Mikel Arteta with only Kai Havertz as a center-forward option.
While Arsenal is linked with several alternatives, Sesko remains their preferred choice. He has scored 14 goals and provided three assists in 26 appearances for RB Leipzig this season.
A report on Wednesday indicated that Arsenal has made a new inquiry to RB Leipzig regarding Sesko. According to John Cross from The Mirror, Arteta is making a significant effort to secure Sesko, and the club is closing in on the striker.
The £60 million striker reportedly has a gentleman’s agreement with RB Leipzig, and Arsenal, having maintained contact, is believed to be the frontrunner to sign him.
It is also noted that they are ‘willing to spend big on a striker transfer now’ after they were given a ‘green light’ for ‘top target’ Sesko, though it needs to be the right player.
‘Arsenal are willing to do a big deal in January – but only if they can land a primary target.
‘They have been looking at top striker target, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, who will be allowed to move in the summer with Arsenal in pole position. The Gunners will see if they can tempt RB Leipzig into a deal now to boost the rest of their campaign with a striker.
‘Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has spelt out that the club are in the market and there has been dialogue with the hierarchy, including Josh Kroenke to bolster the squad. Sesko, 21, has a gentleman’s agreement of around £60m which would allow him to leave in the summer and any club would have to make an offer to tempt them to do business now.
‘Arsenal have remained in touch, are on the case and are believed to be front-runners despite growing interest in the striker. It still remains odds against RB Leipzig selling but a bigger offer may tempt them and there is still a feeling that Arsenal are ready to do business.
‘But they are reluctant to compromise and rush into a deal now and then end up with a player who will not ultimately push their squad to the next level.’
