RB Leipzig Push Benjamin Sesko to the Gunners in Arsenal Transfer News
Arsenal's interest in Benjamin Sesko has been rekindled, with reports suggesting that RB Leipzig is pushing the talented Slovenian striker toward the Gunners. However, there's a catch—Sesko's decision to extend his contract with Leipzig earlier this year, coupled with his disappointing form this season, has cast doubt on his immediate future.
The Rise of Benjamin Sesko
Ahead of the summer transfer window, Benjamin Sesko was one of the most wanted young strikers in Europe. The 21-year-old had enjoyed an impressive finish to the 2023/24 season, scoring goals for fun and becoming a standout performer in the Bundesliga. His form had catapulted him onto the radar of several top clubs, with Chelsea and Manchester United both in hot pursuit.
Despite his rapidly growing value, with his release clause increasing from €50 million to €65 million due to his stellar second half of the season, Sesko was still relatively affordable for a number of clubs. Arsenal felt confident that they could secure his services and presented a compelling case to the Slovenian forward.
But then, in a shocking turn of events, Sesko did the unexpected when he signed a new deal with RB Leipzig to remain in Germany for at least one more season, developing his talent in familiar surroundings. A move that went against expectations from Arsenal and other suitors, but at the time, it seemed like a sensible decision for a young player eager to refine his skills.
A Slow Start to the New Season in Arsenal Transfer News
Fast forward to the present campaign, and this move to stay at Leipzig has seemed not to go according to plan for Benjamin Sesko. Indeed, the potential of the striker was never in question, yet the questions are being asked from the performances he has been producing of late.
Sesko has struggled to replicate the form that made him one of the most talked-about young players of the previous season. In the opening stages of the 2024/25 season, he failed to make an impact on Leipzig's matches. A stretch of four games saw him registering only one shot per game—far from the kind of output that had seen his stock rise so sharply last year.
Just when his critics began to grow loud, Sesko appeared to have turned the corner with a brilliant brace against Augsburg. The two goals brought much-needed relief, and the striker vowed to do better than his tally of 18 goals, setting the stage for what he hopes would be a return to form.
This moment of brilliance notwithstanding, the general picture has been a source of concern: Sesko has struggled to find consistency, and his impact on Leipzig's game is worlds apart from what was expected after last season's hot streak. A fact that has driven some to question if remaining in Leipzig was the right call for his development or whether perhaps a change of air may be better.
As Sesko's struggles continue, Arsenal is once again being linked with a move for the forward. The Gunners were keen on securing his services before his contract extension, and they have not ruled out the possibility of reigniting their interest if the situation at Leipzig does not improve.
But, there is a complication. First and foremost, the new deal that ties him to Leipzig for several years more means he would have to be negotiated with a transfer fee for his current market value. Arsenal may be skeptical to pay out such money when Leipzig's expectation has gone high due to his extension. Also, Sesko hasn't fared well in this current season.
Furthermore, Arsenal has made significant strides in strengthening their squad, particularly in the forward areas, with other targets on the radar. This could influence their decision-making, as they may prioritize other attacking reinforcements over pursuing a player who has yet to regain the form that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after prospects.
The Problem at Hand
The problem for both Benjamin Sesko and any potential suitors, including Arsenal, is whether the Slovenian forward is actually improving or deteriorating. His decision to stay at Leipzig initially seemed like a step forward in his development, but his recent performances suggest he may be stagnating rather than evolving into the player many thought he could become.
For Arsenal, this presents a dilemma. While Sesko's potential remains undeniable, the Gunners will need to weigh the risks of investing in a player who is struggling for consistency. With other attacking options potentially available in the market, Arsenal may decide that their funds are better spent elsewhere unless Sesko can prove he is ready to take the next step in his career.
Conclusion
For now, the future of Benjamin Sesko is not clear. Of course, he is talented, but this season has called into question his immediate development at RB Leipzig. A move to Arsenal is still a possibility, but with his extension and recent form, the Gunners will probably weigh very carefully whether to pursue the Slovenian striker.
Whether this is a temporary setback for Sesko or a deeper issue will determine the next steps for both player and any club interested in signing him. For now, Arsenal will continue to monitor the situation closely in the hope that the talented forward can rediscover the form that made him one of Europe's hottest prospects just a few months ago.
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