### Arsenal's Pursuit of Benjamin Sesko: A Strategic Move in the Transfer Market Arsenal Football Club has formally approached RB Leipzig regarding the signing of Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko, a player who has been on their radar for several transfer windows. The Gunners are looking to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season, with Mikel Arteta expressing a strong interest in the 22-year-old forward, who had an impressive season with 18 goal involvements in 33 Bundesliga appearances [https://fox59.com/sports/sports-illustrated/5f955c84/arsenal-make-formal-approach-over-major-striker-signing-talks-progressing]. This move comes amid competition from other top clubs, including Manchester United and Chelsea, who are also monitoring the situation closely [https://tribuna.com/en/news/2025-06-04-arsenal-are-the-only-club-in-talks-over-benjamin-sesko-with-manchester-united-monitoring]. ### Breakdown of Arsenal's Transfer Strategy 1. **Formal Negotiations Initiated**: Arsenal has entered concrete negotiations with RB Leipzig for Sesko, indicating a serious commitment to securing the player [https://tribuna.com/en/news/2025-06-04-arsenal-are-the-only-club-in-talks-over-benjamin-sesko-with-manchester-united-monitoring]. 2. **Competition from Other Clubs**: While Arsenal is leading the race, Manchester United and Chelsea are also interested, which could complicate negotiations [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/manchester-united-benjamin-sesko-arsenal-35319044]. 3. **Financial Considerations**: RB Leipzig is reportedly demanding a fee close to £70 million, with some reports suggesting it could rise to £93 million, reflecting the high value placed on Sesko [https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/benjamin-sesko-arsenal-gyokeres-chelsea-35306672, https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/05/28/arsenal-must-pay-93m-sign-rb-leipzig-striker-benjamin-sesko]. 4. **Player's Performance and Potential**: Sesko's performance in the Bundesliga, where he scored 13 goals and provided five assists last season, has made him a highly sought-after talent in Europe [https://fox59.com/sports/sports-illustrated/5f955c84/arsenal-make-formal-approach-over-major-striker-signing-talks-progressing]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Player Statistics**: In the 2024/25 Bundesliga season, Benjamin Sesko recorded: - **Goals**: 13 - **Assists**: 5 - **Total Goal Involvements**: 18 in 33 appearances [https://fox59.com/sports/sports-illustrated/5f955c84/arsenal-make-formal-approach-over-major-striker-signing-talks-progressing]. - **Transfer Fee Estimates**: - **Initial Asking Price**: Approximately £70 million [https://www.skysports.com/football/news/12040/13377459/benjamin-sesko-transfer-arsenal-target-to-cost-almost-70m-amid-secret-meeting-say-sky-germany]. - **Potential Increase**: Reports suggest fees could reach £93 million depending on negotiations [https://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2025/05/28/arsenal-must-pay-93m-sign-rb-leipzig-striker-benjamin-sesko]. ### Conclusion: Arsenal's Strategic Move for Sesko In summary, Arsenal's formal approach to sign Benjamin Sesko represents a significant step in their transfer strategy as they aim to enhance their attacking capabilities. The club is navigating a competitive landscape with other Premier League teams also interested in the player. Key points include: 1. **Formal Negotiations**: Arsenal has initiated serious talks with RB Leipzig for Sesko's transfer. 2. **Competitive Landscape**: Other clubs, notably Manchester United and Chelsea, are also pursuing the striker. 3. **Financial Implications**: The transfer fee is expected to be substantial, with estimates ranging from £70 million to £93 million. 4. **Player's Performance**: Sesko's impressive statistics from the previous season bolster his appeal as a top target for Arsenal. As the transfer window progresses, Arsenal's ability to secure Sesko will depend on their negotiation skills and the financial terms they are willing to meet [https://fox59.com/sports/sports-illustrated/5f955c84/arsenal-make-formal-approach-over-major-striker-signing-talks-progressing, https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/manchester-united-benjamin-sesko-arsenal-35319044].