Liverpool approached as Arsenal chase alternative striker deal | OneFootball

Liverpool alerted as Sesko’s agents make contact following Arsenal U-turn

Liverpool approached as Sesko weighs next move

Liverpool have been sounded out over the availability of Benjamin Sesko after Arsenal opted to pursue a deal for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres instead, according to a fresh report from TBR Football.

Sesko, who had been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates throughout the early stages of the summer window, now finds himself at the centre of fresh transfer intrigue. The Slovenian international, still only 22, had been viewed as Mikel Arteta’s preferred option up front. However, RB Leipzig’s firm stance on their €90 million valuation has seen Arsenal look elsewhere.

Photo: IMAGO

Graeme Bailey reports that Sesko’s representatives have now initiated contact with Liverpool, along with Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle. While remaining at Leipzig has not been ruled out, the forward’s camp is actively exploring alternatives.

Gyokeres switch opens Premier League opportunity

The key development here stems from Arsenal’s decision to prioritise Gyokeres, with the Swedish striker having reportedly made it clear to Sporting CP that he will not play for them again. Talks between the clubs are said to be advancing swiftly.

Photo: IMAGO

With Gabriel Jesus not yet leaving North London and the Gyokeres deal close, it’s clear that the Gunners won’t be pursuing another striker, meaning Sesko must now consider a different destination.

Sesko had previously turned down a move to Arsenal last summer, instead choosing to continue his development in the Bundesliga. Speaking to Nogomania in July 2023, he said:

That perspective appears to have shifted. With one year of further development under his belt, Sesko now seems open to a move. His profile. tall, mobile and technically sound, could appeal to several top Premier League sides looking for a long-term focal point in attack.

Where Liverpool fit into the equation

Arne Slot is in his second season and will be evaluating the current squad. There is a clear opportunity to shape the next evolution of this team. With Darwin Núñez still an enigmatic presence and uncertainty over potential outgoings, bringing in a developing forward with elite-level potential could be a strategic move.

Photo: IMAGO

Whether Liverpool are prepared to meet Leipzig’s asking price, however, remains a significant question. At €90 million, it is a fee that would command serious internal discussion, especially given other areas of the squad may also need reinforcement.

There’s no formal offer from Liverpool at this stage, but the fact that Sesko’s agents have proactively reached out is notable. The ball may now be in the club’s court.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This has the hallmarks of agent manoeuvring rather than a genuine indication of club interest.

First, the idea that Sesko is being offered to clubs rather than Liverpool actively pursuing him raises alarm bells. This is how transfer windows often unfold, agents float names to big clubs to drum up a market, especially after a move elsewhere collapses. Arsenal walking away due to the €90 million price tag tells you everything about Leipzig’s position.

Secondly, would this really be a priority for Slot and the recruitment team? With questions still hanging over defensive depth, splashing such a high fee on a striker who is not an urgent need feels questionable.

And then there’s the player himself. A year ago, he wasn’t ready for England. Now, on the back of a decent season in Germany, his camp is looking to cash in. Has enough changed to justify such a massive investment?

The link is intriguing on paper, but unless the price drops significantly or Liverpool part ways with one of their current forwards, fans have every right to take this rumour with a pinch of salt.