Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
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Bayern Munich are weighing up a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, potentially hijacking Arsenal’s long-standing pursuit of the 22-year-old forward, according to reports fromBild.
Sesko, who has impressed since his arrival at Leipzig from Red Bull Salzburg in 2023, has scored 39 goals in 87 appearances across all competitions. Arsenal have been tracking the Slovenian striker for over a year and attempted to sign him last summer before he opted to extend his contract with Leipzig. The Gunners have since reopened talks with the Bundesliga club in an effort to secure a deal this summer.
However, Bayern Munich could disrupt those plans. Bild claims that the Bundesliga champions remain interested in Sesko after failing to land him last year. The report suggests that Bayern view Sesko as a long-term successor to Harry Kane and could even deploy him as a central striker, with Kane dropping into a deeper playmaking role.
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Leipzig are reportedly holding out for more than €100 million (£85 million), but are open to negotiations and could agree to a deal in the region of €70 million (£60 million). This valuation puts both Arsenal and Bayern in direct competition for the in-demand striker.
Arsenal - Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko (Image credit: Getty Images)
The latest development comes amid reports that Bayern are also considering a move for another Arsenal target, Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is said to be a major admirer of the Spanish international. However, Sky Germany reports that Williams is open to a switch to Bayern, who are seeking to replace Leroy Sane following his free transfer to Galatasaray.
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Williams has a release clause of approximately €58 million (£49 million), and while negotiations are still at an early stage, the interest from both Bayern and Barcelona has heightened speculation about the winger’s future.
Athletic Bilbao president Jon Uriarte addressed the situation in a recent interview with El Correo, expressing hope that Williams will remain at the club. “I believe we have a winning and interesting project for everyone, and Nico is part of that project,” Uriarte said. “The project becomes easier if we keep our players – and I believe Nico and the rest of the squad have a very exciting year ahead.”
Barcelona are also said to have opened discussions with Williams’ representatives, setting up a possible three-way race for the 21-year-old’s signature.
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