Arsenal’s Patience May Pay Off as Leipzig Reportedly Drops Sesko Price Tag

Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Benjamin Sesko may finally be gaining traction, as reports suggest RB Leipzig is ready to soften its initial demands. The Gunners, who have been in the market for a striker capable of leading their line next season, may now have a clearer path toward landing the Slovenian forward—without paying the nine-figure sum initially floated by the Bundesliga club.

Arsenal have made no secret of their desire to reinforce their attack. After finishing second in the Premier League for the third season in a row, Mikel Arteta knows that firepower is the missing piece in a squad that has otherwise developed balance, resilience, and creativity. Among the forwards under consideration, Benjamin Sesko has remained firmly at the top of the wishlist.

However, when RB Leipzig set a price tag reportedly between €80 and €100 million, the Gunners stepped back and began exploring other avenues—most notably Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres. The concern wasn’t necessarily about Sesko’s quality, but rather the risk associated with such a high price for a player who is still developing his game at the top level.

Now, that situation appears to have shifted. According to fresh reports out of Germany, Leipzig is willing to reduce the price, with a figure of around €70 million (£59.7 million) now seen as enough to open serious negotiations. This development comes after weeks of little progress and growing impatience from Arsenal fans eager to see a new No. 9 join the ranks.

The appeal of Sesko to Arsenal goes beyond just his goals. At 22, he represents a long-term investment. The Gunners believe they can shape him into a complete forward who can grow with the team, similar to how the club handled the development of William Saliba and Martin Ødegaard.

Unlike Gyokeres, who at 27 is more of a finished product and likely nearing his peak, Sesko still has untapped potential. That means his ceiling is higher—and, crucially, his resale value could also be significantly better if things go according to plan.

Leipzig is well aware of this, which is why they had initially aimed high. But Sesko’s interest in joining the Premier League and Arsenal’s steady presence at the negotiating table may have helped sway the German club to consider a more realistic deal.

While some players and their agents push for transfers aggressively, Sesko’s camp has taken a notably respectful approach. His agent, Elvis Basanovic, recently dismissed rumors that they had been lobbying Leipzig to force a sale, saying they want to handle any exit “the right way.” It’s a message that may resonate with Arsenal, a club known for prioritizing character as much as ability.