Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta
Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal have taken a major step in their pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško, reportedly agreeing personal terms with the Slovenian international ahead of a potential big-money summer transfer, according to Team News and Ticks..
The 21-year-old forward, who has also attracted interest from Chelsea and Manchester United, has emerged as Mikel Arteta’s top target to lead the line next season. Talks are now ongoing between Arsenal and Leipzig to finalise a transfer fee, with the Gunners keen to secure his signature early in the window.
Šeško enjoyed a fine 2024/25 campaign, scoring 21 goals and providing six assists in 45 appearances across all competitions. In the Bundesliga, he netted 13 goals and added five assists in 33 games, showcasing his development into one of Europe’s most complete young strikers.
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Although Šeško signed a contract extension with Leipzig until 2029 last summer, a gentleman’s agreement is understood to allow him to leave should a suitable offer arrive. His release clause is believed to be €80 million (£67 million), though reports suggest Leipzig may demand as much as £92.5 million due to his exceptional all-round attributes and suitability for the Premier League.
Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg has confirmed that Arsenal are in “concrete talks” with Leipzig, with new sporting director Andrea Berta in direct discussions with Marcel Schäfer regarding the financial structure of the deal.
Arsenal - Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko (Image credit: Getty Images)
The Gunners’ interest in Šeško has intensified following a season disrupted by injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus, which exposed a lack of firepower up front. Kai Havertz, who has led as a central striker this season, faced criticism for his finishing, missing 12 big chances in the Premier League. Šeško, by contrast, boasts a 23% shot conversion rate and 0.48 non-penalty xG per 90 minutes, statistics that mark him as a more clinical option.
At 6ft 5in, Šeško combines physical dominance with pace and intelligent movement, making him an ideal fit for Arteta’s system, which relies on fluid interplay between wingers and creative midfielders like Martin Ødegaard.
Reports indicate that Šeško favours a move to Arsenal over other suitors. In a recent interview with Sport1, he expressed his desire to join a club focused on development: “The club has given me a lot and continues to give me a lot every day,” he said, hinting at his openness to a project like Arsenal’s, which is heavily built around emerging talent.
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While Chelsea and Manchester United remain in the race, Arsenal’s proactive approach could prove decisive. With Leipzig having finished seventh in the Bundesliga and missing out on European competition, they are reportedly open to selling quickly. Sources close to the negotiations suggest a deal in the region of £60–70 million is more realistic than the £93 million figure cited elsewhere.
Benjamin Sesko in big games during his career so far.
21-years-old.
Get it done, @arsenal. pic.twitter.com/c9AwB4MEwD
— now.arsenal (@now_arsenaI) May 30, 2025
Šeško’s agent, Elvis Basanovic, has also hinted at a move, telling Arena Sport that his client’s versatility would allow him to thrive in different systems, including Arteta’s single-striker setup.
Arsenal’s transfer business is not limited to Šeško. The club is also close to securing Real Sociedad midfielder Martín Zubimendi, who is reportedly undergoing a £51 million medical. Additionally, PSG winger Bradley Barcola, who provided an assist in the Champions League final is on Arsenal’s radar.
However, Šeško remains the priority as the Gunners look to avoid the attacking shortfalls that cost them in the 2024/25 title race. With personal terms agreed and talks accelerating, Arsenal could complete the signing as early as next week.
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