Benjamin Sesko remains a top Arsenal target. (Image: Getty Images)
Arsenal are now in a position to pursue RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, after the Slovenian international declined a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia in time for the Club World Cup. Saudi Arabian team Al-Hilal had identified Sesko as their third choice in their search for a high-profile forward to join Aleksandar Mitrovic in their squad for the US tournament this summer.
However, they needed to finalise a deal by 7pm GMT on Tuesday to register new players for the group stages. Al-Hilal will face Real Madrid in their Club World Cup opener next Wednesday, and aim to use the tournament to demonstrate the progress made by Saudi teams in recent years, despite criticism of their Pro League.
One of the main strategies they are employing is financial investment, but Al-Hilal were unsuccessful in their attempts to sign Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres before Sesko, who plans to leave Leipzig this summer but prefers to remain in Europe.
These rejections follow Al-Hilal's appointment of Simone Inzaghi as their new manager last week, and Bruno Fernandes' decision to stay at Manchester United rather than join his Portugal team-mates Joao Cancelo and Ruben Neves in Saudi Arabia.
Arsenal have been pursuing Sesko for a year and nearly completed a deal for the 22-year-old last summer. They can now pursue a move without fear of Saudi teams pushing for a transfer before the first deadline.
Benjamin Sesko won't be playing for Al-Hilal at the Club World Cup. (Image: Getty Images)
The sought-after Gyokeres and Newcastle's star player Alexander Isak have been on their radar, along with the Slovenian. With a host of clubs showing interest in Gyokeres and Isak demanding a fee exceeding £100million, the Slovenian is viewed as an easier signing.
Despite Sesko's impressive tally of 21 goals in 45 matches across all competitions, Leipzig failed to secure a spot in European football this season. The Bundesliga team are now poised to part ways with both the striker and attacking midfielder Xavi Simons to generate funds.
Sesko could potentially earn quadruple at Al-Hilal compared to what he'd receive at Arsenal. While a move there can't be dismissed when the transfer window reopens next Monday, his rejection of this interest appears to bode well for the Gunners.