Arsenal were dealt a blow when a key target in RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko rejected an approach from Mikel Arteta.
The 21-year-old was coveted by Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United, but he signed a new contract to remain with his club.
Arsenal may rethink their transfer plans now when it comes to signing a striker, but Sesko could still be an option in the future, as his new deal follows the path of Erling Haaland at Borussia Dortmund, with a gentlemen’s agreement that he will likely move on in the coming years.
It remains to be seen whether Arsenal will consider a move in the future or invest heavily in a striker now, but despite the blow of Sesko rejecting Arteta, the club are confident over their plans.
Arsenal will continue to monitor Benjamin Sesko despite rejection
The Athletic have now reported that Arsenal are not as frustrated as they may appear with regard to Sesko, and will maintain their interest in him in the long-term despite his rejection now.
“Arsenal are not too disheartened by Sesko’s decision. They always knew that there was a strong possibility he would stay with Leipzig this summer. They will continue to follow Sesko and maintain the relationship, as he remains of long-term interest,” they stated.
Sesko would have cost £55m this summer, but will likely cost significantly more in the future if he continues his outstanding form.
Benjamin Sesko could still move to Arsenal in the future
Sesko’s decision to remain at Leipzig may have been in part due to Kai Havertz’s excellent form as a striker. The Slovenian would not have initially started over him, and regular game time may be better for his development now.
Should Sesko develop into a top-class striker at Leipzig, Arsenal may want to pursue a deal further down the line when he is more established. Right now, if they add a wide attacker to the squad, a pure centre-forward may not be necessary, and waiting for Sesko could still be an option.
Sesko scored 14 goals in 17 Bundesliga starts this season, and he could be the long-term answer to competing with Manchester City star Erling Haaland as a goalscoring number nine.