Sesko Talks Gain Momentum
Arsenal are intensifying their pursuit of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, with further talks scheduled to secure the 22-year-old Slovenian striker. No deal has been finalized, but optimism grows as negotiations advance, with Leipzig setting a £60m price tag for Sesko, who scored 13 Bundesliga goals in 2024/25 and has 41 caps for Slovenia. Mikel Arteta has convinced Sesko of his project at Arsenal, where he is the top striker target ahead of Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres. The Gunners, who finished second in the Premier League for three straight years, see Sesko as key to challenging for the title, complementing Kai Havertz’s 9 goals last season.
Real Madrid’s Zubimendi Threat
Arsenal’s hopes of signing Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi are under threat from Real Madrid. Despite an agreement with Sociedad, the 26-year-old midfielder, valued at £50m, has not committed, with a medical still pending. Zubimendi, who rejected Liverpool last summer, prefers to stay in Spain and is drawn to playing under Real Madrid’s new manager Xabi Alonso, his former coach at Sociedad B. Spanish reports highlight Zubimendi’s interest in joining Alonso’s project, making him a top target for Madrid. This setback forces Arsenal to reassess their midfield plans, with Arteta eyeing defensive reinforcements alongside Zubimendi.
Arsenal’s Wider Targets
Beyond Sesko, Arteta is targeting wingers to boost Arsenal’s attack. Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams, Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, and Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sané are on the shortlist, with Williams a long-term interest. Arsenal’s failure to sign Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who favors Manchester United, has shifted focus to these alternatives. The club’s transfer strategy aims to address their lack of a prolific No. 9 and add versatility, as Arteta seeks to close the gap on rivals like Manchester City, who recently signed AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, and Liverpool, nearing a deal for Florian Wirtz.
What’s Next?
Arsenal’s next round of talks for Sesko, expected within days, could see a £60m offer materialize, with the June 10 Club World Cup transfer window deadline looming. Zubimendi’s potential move to Real Madrid leaves Arsenal scrambling, possibly turning to alternatives like Porto’s Alan Varela. Arteta’s pursuit of Williams or Sané could accelerate if Sesko’s deal progresses, but budget constraints may limit moves unless players like Eddie Nketiah are sold. Arsenal’s transfer activity, crucial for their 2025/26 title push, remains fluid, with fans on X buzzing about Sesko’s potential impact and wary of losing Zubimendi.
