Arsenal have ended their pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, with a move for Viktor Gyökeres now imminent — here’s why
Benjamin Sesko
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have reportedly called off their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s highly rated striker Benjamin Sesko, marking a significant shift in their transfer strategy for the 2025/26 Premier League season.
The Gunners had long identified Sesko as a marquee target to lead their front line, with the 22-year-old Slovenian international viewed as a key piece to elevate Mikel Arteta’s squad following three successive second-place finishes in the league. However, after weeks of negotiations, Arsenal have decided to walk away from the deal due to major differences in valuation and the striker’s wage demands.
Sesko, who netted 21 goals and provided six assists in 45 appearances for Leipzig last season, had been on Arsenal’s radar since the summer of 2024. His powerful presence and clinical finishing had drawn comparisons to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland, fueling hopes that he could bring a new edge to Arsenal’s attack.
Initial reports suggested that Arsenal were prepared to offer €75 million (£63m) for the striker. However, Leipzig’s demands quickly escalated, with the Bundesliga club insisting on a package that included a €40 million upfront payment and an additional €40 million in structured add-ons, pushing the total cost to nearly £100 million. Arsenal’s hierarchy, led by sporting director Andrea Berta, viewed the valuation as excessive.
Viktor Gyokeres (Image credit: Getty Images)
In addition to the transfer fee, Sesko’s wage expectations reportedly exceeded Arsenal’s current salary framework. Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that the striker’s camp sought a deal that raised concerns over long-term financial sustainability. Arsenal, known for maintaining a disciplined wage structure under Arteta and Berta, were unwilling to compromise.
Compounding the situation were contract demands from Sesko’s representatives, which included a proposed release clause. Arsenal’s preference for long-term contractual control over key assets clashed with those terms, further straining talks. According to sources close to the negotiations, the Gunners ultimately deemed Leipzig’s “impossible ask” as incompatible with their transfer philosophy.
Leipzig ain’t budging on their asking price and Sesko isn’t forcing a move.
Whereas Gyokeres has told Sporting he won’t return to training and is desperate to move to Arsenal.
Gyokeres is doing everything he can, and it seems it’s worked with Arsenal now making their first… https://t.co/X1fnc9F7be
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) July 6, 2025
In light of the breakdown, Arsenal have pivoted to Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, who has emerged as the club’s new priority. The 27-year-old Swedish international enjoyed a prolific campaign in Portugal, scoring 97 goals in 102 appearances and establishing himself as one of Europe’s most in-demand forwards.
Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein report that Arsenal are now in advanced talks with Sporting, having already agreed personal terms with Gyokeres on a five-year contract. A deal in the region of £69 million is believed to be on the table, significantly lower than Sesko’s valuation.
Gyokeres has reportedly rejected interest from Juventus and Manchester United, turning down a lucrative £11 million-a-year offer from the Italian giants in favour of a move to the Emirates. His commitment to joining Arsenal reflects confidence in Arteta’s project and is seen as a boost for the club’s ongoing recruitment drive.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta (Image credit: Getty Images)
Sporting director Andrea Berta has been credited with orchestrating Arsenal’s swift transition from Sesko to Gyokeres, leveraging his extensive network to maintain momentum in a critical transfer window.
Despite missing out on Sesko, Arsenal have made considerable progress this summer. The club has already confirmed the arrivals of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad and goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea. Additional moves are expected, with Brentford’s Christian Norgaard, Chelsea’s Noni Madueke, Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo also on the Gunners’ radar.
Arsenal are working toward a self-imposed mid-July deadline to secure their striker signing in order to ensure full integration during pre-season preparations. While the collapse of the Sesko deal may appear as a setback, the club’s disciplined approach under Berta underscores a broader commitment to balancing ambition with financial prudence.