Bundesliga giants to rival Arsenal for Benjamin Sesko transfer

Borussia Dortmund are set to rival Arsenal for the signing of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, according to reports.

The Slovenian striker is in high demand right now following an impressive 2023/24 season in which he scored 14 goals and provided two assists in just 1,527 minutes of Bundesliga action, extending his record to 18 goals across all competitions.

Still only 21 years old, it’s understood Arsenal have been advancing in their negotiations to sign Sesko as they search for new options in the striker role this summer.

Mikel Arteta is looking for an out-and-out number nine following disappointing seasons from Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah, who scored just nine Premier League goals combined.

Kai Havertz enjoyed a more productive campaign with 13 goals and seven assists in the Premier League, but the Germany international can play across multiple positions and may be needed elsewhere on the pitch.

Dortmund to rival Arsenal for Sesko transfer

According to Bild (via Get Football News Germany), Dortmund see Sesko as their ‘dream’ striker target for the upcoming summer transfer window.

Niclas Fullkrug impressed as Die Schwarzgelben went all the way to the Champions League final this season, but only scored 16 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions, spanning over 3,600 minutes of play. The 31-year-old is known more for his link-up play and physicality, rather than being a clinical finisher.

Sesko shares similar traits to Fullkrug, but has enjoyed far more productive numbers in front of goal in fewer minutes over the last couple of seasons.

With a €65m release clause in his contract, Sesko may well be in control of his own destiny as RB Leipzig have no choice but to accept bids at this level. It could ultimately come down to whether he wants to remain in the Bundesliga a while longer or test himself in the Premier League.

“Of course, it would be nice to play there, but first of all, let’s focus on right now and we will see what happens later,” Sesko told the Guardian of his thoughts on the English top flight in 2023.