RB Leipzig have taken action to try and avoid jeopardising a transfer that will see Benjamin Sesko join Arsenal.
The Gunners are in talks with the German club over a potential deal this summer, but they face competition from other clubs including Chelsea, Manchester United and Saudi Pro League clubs .
Sesko is currently on international duty with Slovenia, but an injury saw him miss Friday’s friendly game against Luxembourg. The Mirror now reports that Leipzig have contacted the Slovenian FA to ask them to leave him out of the squad for Tuesday night’s friendly against Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The move suggests that the club are trying to protect the player from injury that could potentially jeopardise a move this summer. Sesko is said to have been nursing a small knee injury over the last few weeks.
It is reported that the Slovenian FA have failed to promise that he won’t play, with them believing that he could still prove his fitness before the game. They have, however, said that they won’t push the striker to play if he isn’t ready.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is said to have held talks with Leipzig chief Marcel Schafer, with a deal in the work, although not yet close. The German club are planning on selling both Sesko and attacking midfielder Xavi Simons to raise funds after missing out o European football next season.
The Gunners' priority this summer is to sign a striker, after failing to strengthen the area back in January. Sesko has been a long-term target for the club with them making contact both last summer and in January, something that is appreciated by the player.
Arsenal have also shown interest in Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, although the Magpies will put up a fight to keep hold of their star player. Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres is also a target with Manchester United also linked with an interest in the Sweden international.
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Arsenal Manager Mikel Arteta, Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Gabriel Jesus with the Arsenal Therapy Dog Win during the Arsenal Men's team group shoot at London Colney on September 18, 2023
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