Arsenal faces major setback as Benjamin Sesko reverses decision and signs new agreement.
Benjamin Sesko is set to sign a new contract with RB Leipzig after rejecting transfer interest from Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United.
The highly sought-after 21-year-old striker has a £55 million release clause in his current deal, but he is now ready to sign new terms and extend his stay in the Bundesliga, where he will become one of Leipzig’s top earners.
Sesko is traveling to Germany today with the Slovenia national team and wanted to make a quick decision about his future before the European Championships. This follows Slovenia boss Matjaz Kek calling the transfer saga a “circus,” as he aims to avoid distractions ahead of the tournament.
Sesko’s agent, Elvis Basanovic, has informed all relevant parties that Sesko will remain at Leipzig this summer. The new deal includes a gentleman’s agreement allowing Sesko to move for a fair price in the future.
Basanovic also indicated that Sesko might stay at Leipzig to continue his impressive development, having scored 18 goals in all competitions this season.
Signing a world-class striker is not the top priority for Mikel Arteta and Edu this summer. They appreciate players like Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyokeres, and Victor Osimhen, but are not desperate to secure a marquee center-forward, especially after Kai Havertz’s strong finish to the season.
Additionally, Sesko was not the only target on Arsenal’s radar, despite being a top pick. Arsenal may seek a new winger to strengthen their attack and are open to bolstering their central midfield, with Newcastle’s Bruno Guimaraes among the names of interest. Thomas Partey’s future is uncertain as he nears the final year of his contract.
The Gunners also admire Monaco’s Youssouf Fofana, who is set to leave the Ligue 1 club this summer. Arsenal has held initial talks with his representatives, but discussions have not progressed further at this stage.