Arsenal step up efforts to sign €80m-rated Bundesliga star: Reports

Arsenal have stepped up their efforts to sign Benjamin Sesko, according to club insider Charles Watts on Caught Offside. The Gunners were interested in the €80m-rated Slovenian striker this summer, but failed to secure a move.

Sesko opted to sign a new deal with RB Leipzig and is now under contract at the Red Bull Arena until 2029. The north London side were linked with multiple new strikers but opted against signing a new No. 9 this year.

However, Arsenal sporting director Edu has apparently put in a lot of work behind the scenes to prepare for Sesko's eventual arrival. Even though the player turned down a move to the Etihad over the summer, the two parties have maintained a healthy relationship.

Edu remains in touch with the player's camp, with the Gunners planning a move at the end of this season. It is believed that the player is now open to a transfer as well. The Slovenian has been on fire this season for the Bundesliga club, scoring six goals and setting up three more from nine games across competitions.

He matches the profile of players recently targeted by the north London side and is also a fine fit in Mikel Arteta's tactics. Joining Arsenal could also help Sesko take the next step in his career.

How much will Arsenal have to pay for Benjamin Sesko in 2025?

Arsenal are looking for an upgrade on Gabriel Jesus, who has failed to live up to expectations since arriving at the Emirates from Manchester City in 2022. The 27-year-old has scored just 19 goals from 77 games for the Gunners to date, which simply isn't good enough.

The north London side are competing for the Premier League title and need a proven striker in their squad. While Kai Havertz has done a good job so far, he is not the ideal option for the job.

Benjamin Sesko is tailor-made for the role and could even prove to be an upgrade on Jesus. The Slovenian had a €65m release clause in his previous contract but that is now obsolete after he signed a new deal.

Italian journalist Marco Guidi has recently stated that the Slovenian could cost €80m next summer if he manages to hold on to his recent form. There's reportedly a gentleman's agreement between RB Leipzig and the player's camp which will allow him to leave for a proper fee in 2025.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are not the only club eyeing Sesko with interest. As per TEAMtalk, Manchester United are apparently in the race as well, with new signing Joshua Zirkzee failing to convince so far.