Arsenal have opened negotiations with RB Leipzig over a deal to sign striker Benjamin Sesko, with Mikel Arteta giving the green light for a summer move, Sporting News understands.
Talks are progressing between Leipzig director Rouven Schröder and Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta, with the Bundesliga side asking for a fee of at least £75 million.
However, sources indicate that Arsenal are hoping to reduce the upfront cost by structuring the deal with performance-related add-ons.
Sesko, 22, has emerged as a key target for Arteta, who is keen to add firepower to his frontline after missing out on the Premier League title for two consecutive seasons.
The Slovenian international scored 21 goals in all competitions last season and is viewed by the Arsenal hierarchy as a long-term solution through the middle.
What did Henry and Arteta say about Arsenal needing a striker?
Club legend Thierry Henry recently questioned the lack of a recognised striker at the Emirates, telling The Overlap:
“Everyone has been screaming for a nine – apart from when we win. When we beat Real Madrid, we didn’t need a nine. But with the injuries and what came in, there was still time to get one.”
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
Arteta, meanwhile, made it clear that recruitment in attack is a priority this summer.
“If you want to win major trophies, you have to be the best in the market. The teams that win always have the best players,” he said.
“We need a goal threat and firepower. We have to add goals, creativity, and numbers across different positions.”
Elsewhere, Arsenal are in advanced talks over a contract extension for Thomas Partey.
The midfielder has just one year left on his current deal and has attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Sources indicate the Ghanaian is keen to remain in London with his young family, with negotiations showing positive momentum in recent days.
In other transfer news, Brazilian winger Marquinhos has joined Cruzeiro in a permanent deal.
Arsenal news and related links
