Following reports that Arsenal have made a bid for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, journalist Fabrizio Romano has just shared a fresh update.
Having been quoted an enormous sum for Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak this summer, it seems Arsenal’s attention has now quickly shifted to Sesko.
Although not quite the same finished product, a deal for Sesko could actually be a better fit for Arsenal for a number of reasons.
First of all, the striker’s asking price, with Arsenal learning that they will need to pay £55m to activate the Sesko’s release clause.
Given the 21-year-old’s talent, interest and potential, it’s a fairly reasonable sum, one that shouldn’t be beyond Arsenal.
And as briefly mentioned, Sesko is a player who does still need to develop to play for a top, top side – which Arsenal now consider themselves.
As opposed to Isak, who would have disrupted Kai Havertz’s role, Sesko can play understudy to the German, perhaps presenting a better fit.
That being said, Romano has just shared an update on X explaining the time frame around Sesko’s decision.
Benjamin Sesko needs more time to decide future after Arsenal approach
Romano’s information reiterated that Sesko had rejected a move from Saudi Arabia, and was now considering multiple Premier League advances.
He shared: “Benjamin Sesko, taking some more days to decide his future.
“There’s still new contract proposal from RB Leipzig on the table. Meanwhile, Sesko said no to €30m net salary from Saudi.
“Man United, Arsenal, Chelsea have all approached Sesko since March/April.”
It’s believed that all parties involved want a decision before the Euros, with the competition commencing on June 14.
Sesko will actually face England at this summer’s tournament, and both Leipzig and Arsenal are keen to sort matters swiftly beforehand.
A move for Sesko is likely to have a positive impact on the rest of Arsenal’s business this summer, a deal that would leave a significant amount of money left over.
Of course, given that Arsenal also want to sign a left-back and a central midfielder, that could be incredibly important.
It seems odd to suggest that £55m is a small amount, one that can create financial freedom elsewhere, but Arsenal have been quoted as much as £171m for Isak.
And on the topic of high asking prices, a £104m midfielder linked with a move to Arsenal was superb on his full international debut last night.