Arsenal could now shift their focus on Joshua Zirkzee after suffering a blow in their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko.
According to Ed Aarons, Arsenal are keen on signing a new number nine in the upcoming transfer window as they look to take the next step under Mikel Arteta. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has been a top target for them. But the Gunners have suffered a blow in their pursuit and could now step up their interest in Bologna ace Joshua Zirkzee.
Sesko had an incredible debut season at RB Leipzig as he found the back of the net on 18 occasions. The 21-year-old’s incredible form in front of the goal did not go unnoticed. Multiple clubs were ready to knock on the German club’s door for the Slovenian ace, and Arsenal were one of them.
Benjamin Sesko extends his stay at Leipzig
The Gunners were involved in a transfer tussle with Chelsea for the signature of the former Red Bull Salzburg striker. The North London club had been monitoring him for months and were ready to trigger his €65 million release clause. But, they have suffered a blow as the player has decided to sign a new deal with Leipzig.
Sesko along with his representative was keen on having a clear picture of his future before the start of the Euro, and they have agreed to a new deal following talks this week. While there is a gentleman’s agreement about a future transfer, he will continue at Leipzig for the 2024/25 season.
This decision has come as a huge blow for Mikel Arteta’s team. The Gunners once again missed out on the Premier League title by the smallest margin last season, and Arteta is now looking to make the necessary changes to help them finally lift the league title.
Arsenal to push for Joshua Zirkzee
He wants someone who can hold the ball and bring others around him into play and more importantly score goals on a consistent basis. With Sesko no longer available, the Gunners could now shift their focus towards Joshua Zirkzee.
Things might not have worked out for Zirkzee at Bayern Munich. But he has been doing a great job since making the move to Bologna. Last season, he found the back of the net on 12 occasions and even bagged seven assists.
On the back of his performances, he has found himself on the Arsenal wishlist. While AC Milan are heavily linked with the 23-year-old, the Gunners can surely make a case for themselves. The Dutch youth international has a €40 million release clause which should not be a problem for the North London club. While Arsenal have not decided anything yet, they could surely step up their interest following the development in Sesko’s situation.