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Arsenal to face competition from multiple Saudi clubs for transfer of priority striker target: Reports

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Arsenal will face competition from the Middle East in the race to sign Benjamin Sesko this summer, according to journalist Sam Dean. The Gunners are eager to rope in a new No. 9 ahead of the start of the new season and have identified the Slovenian as an option.

Sesko was also a target for the north London side in the summer of 2024, but a move failed to materialize. The 22-year-old is coming off an impressive campaign with RB Leipzig, registering 21 goals and six assists from 45 games.

His efforts have convinced Mikel Arteta, who wants Sesko to spearhead the attack next season. Arsenal are already in touch with the Bundesliga club to understand the requirements of a deal.

Sesko is under contract at the Red Bull Arena until 2029, and is likely to cost €80 million. The Gunners haven't shied away from breaking the bank for their targets in recent years.

New sporting director Andrea Berta also has Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres and Aston Villa hitman Ollie Watkins on his radar. But it is now believed that the Slovenian is the north London side's preferred target.

However, Arsenal will face competition from two clubs from Saudi Arabia, including Al-Hilal, in the race for Sesko. However, the player reportedly wants to continue his stay in Europe, which could work in the Gunners' favor.

Are Arsenal eyeing a move for Kepa Arrizabalaga this summer?

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Kepa Arrizabalaga

Arsenal are working to take Kepa Arrizabalaga to the Emirates this summer, according to Sky Sports. The Spanish goalkeeper joined Chelsea from Athletic Bilbao in the summer of 2018 for a reported £71.8 million.

However, Kepa has fallen out of favor of late and spent the 2024-25 campaign out on loan to Bournemouth. The 30-year-old was quite impressive with the Cherries, registering nine clean sheets from 35 games.

Kepa is no longer part of the Blues' plans and is likely to leave Stamford Bridge permanently this summer. Interestingly, the Spaniard signed a new contract with Chelsea before leaving on loan last summer, which includes a £5 million release clause.

It is now being reported that Arsenal are looking to exercise that option in the coming days.

With Neto returning to Bournemouth at the end of his loan spell, the Gunners want Kepa to be the backup to David Raya in the squad. Kepa is apparently keen to make the move and fight for a place in Mikel Arteta's starting XI.

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Deepungsu Pandit

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