Agent’s Clarification
Elivis Basanovic, agent of RB Leipzig’s 22-year-old striker Benjamin Sesko, has refuted rumors that he is pushing to lower the club’s €80-100m (£68-86m) asking price for a transfer to Arsenal, calling such claims “rubbish” and “far from truth.” In a statement reported by The Daily Star, Basanovic emphasized the respectful relationship between Sesko and Leipzig, stating, “We respect RB Leipzig, and I am 100 per cent convinced RB Leipzig will respect our decision for the next step.” He stressed that Sesko, who has agreed personal terms with Arsenal, will not force or “blackmail” Leipzig into a cut-price deal.
Sesko’s Desire and Leipzig’s Stance
Sesko, who scored 21 goals in 45 games for Leipzig in 2024/25, including 13 in the Bundesliga, is Arsenal’s top striker target as they aim to end a 22-year Premier League title drought after finishing second to Liverpool. Leipzig are open to letting the Slovenian forward, contracted until 2029, leave if their valuation is met. Basanovic called for “more respect” in transfer dealings, noting, “We do things the right way or we don’t do them.” Arsenal’s hope to negotiate a lower fee contrasts with Leipzig’s firm stance, bolstered by Sesko’s 1.8 shots on target per game and 0.47 goals per match.
Arsenal’s Striker Pursuit
Arsenal, having signed Martin Zubimendi for £51m, prioritize Sesko over Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres, whose €80m price tag prompted a pause in talks. Sesko’s physicality (6ft 5in), aerial ability (2.3 aerial duels won per game), and versatility suit Mikel Arteta’s system, complementing Kai Havertz. Despite interest from Al-Hilal and Chelsea, Sesko favors Arsenal’s Champions League project. Basanovic’s comments suggest a deal hinges on Arsenal meeting Leipzig’s €80-100m range, potentially including add-ons like Champions League qualification.
What’s Next?
Negotiations between Arsenal and Leipzig are ongoing, with the second transfer window open until September 1, 2025. A deal could be finalized before Arsenal’s Club World Cup debut against Al-Ain on June 22, allowing Sesko to join pre-season. Failure to agree a fee may shift Arsenal’s focus to Gyökeres or Brighton’s João Pedro. Fans on X are optimistic about Sesko’s fit, but some urge caution given Leipzig’s high valuation. Arsenal’s Premier League opener against Manchester United on August 17, 2025, looms, with Arteta keen to bolster the attack after a 2024/25 season with 86 goals, second to Liverpool’s 92.
