The Sesko Saga: Leipzig’s Stance and Arsenal’s Dilemma
RB Leipzig have set a staggering price tag of £68.4m–£85.5m (€80m–€100m) for Slovenian sensation Benjamin Sesko, a top target for Arsenal this summer. According to Mostplay sources, the Bundesliga club is leveraging recent striker deals—like Hugo Ekitike’s move to PSG and Alexander Isak’s Newcastle transfer—to justify their valuation of the 22-year-old.
Arsenal have reportedly held preliminary talks but remain hesitant to submit a formal bid, wary of overpaying for a player still refining his consistency. Sesko, meanwhile, is open to the move but unwilling to force an exit, respecting his “gentleman’s agreement” with Leipzig to stay until at least this window.
Benjamin Sesko’s physicality and aerial prowess have drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland—a profile Arsenal crave.
Why Sesko Fits Arteta’s System
Tactical Flexibility and Room to Grow
Standing at 6’5″, Sesko combines raw power with surprising technical ability. His 21 goals and 6 assists last season (including 4 in the Champions League) hint at elite potential, though his decision-making under pressure needs polish. As Mostplay tactical analyst Mark Thompson notes:
“Sesko thrives in transitions—exactly what Arsenal need against low blocks. But his hold-up play isn’t yet at Isak’s level. That’s the gamble.”
The Haaland Parallels: More Than Just Height
Like Haaland, Sesko uses his frame to dominate defenders, but his agility and left-footed finishing set him apart. His 0.58 goals per 90 in the Bundesliga last season outperformed Gyokeres’ Primeira Liga rate (0.52), albeit in a tougher league.
Alternatives and Financial Realities
Gyokeres: The High-Risk, High-Reward Option
Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres remains on Arsenal’s radar, but president Frederico Varandas has dismissed rumors of a €70m release clause. The Swede’s physicality and 39-goal contributions last season are tempting, but his lack of top-league experience raises questions.
The Isak Pipe Dream
Newcastle’s Alexander Isak is Arsenal’s dream signing, but Eddie Howe’s refusal to sell and a £100m+ valuation make this move improbable. As Mostplay transfer insider David Clarke reveals:
“Arsenal’s hierarchy admires Isak’s Premier League-proof profile, but Financial Fair Play rules demand pragmatism.”
What’s Next for Arsenal?
The Zubimendi Factor
While striker searches dominate headlines, Arsenal are quietly advancing a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi. The £52m midfielder would free up funds by offsetting Partey’s likely exit.
Key Dates and Pressure Points
With Leipzig demanding clarity by mid-July to find a replacement, Arsenal must decide soon. Sesko’s camp prefers a resolution before pre-season tours begin—a timeline that could force the Gunners’ hand.
#Mostplay Verdict: Sesko’s ceiling justifies Leipzig’s price, but Arsenal’s history of costly striker gambles (Pepe, Havertz) demands caution. Gyokeres offers cheaper upside, while Isak remains the unrealizable ideal. One thing’s clear: Arteta needs a decisive move to avoid another “nearly” season.
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