Arsenal Held ‘Secret Meeting’ to Sign £70m Forward | OneFootball

Arsenal Advance Sesko Pursuit with Key London Talks

Arsenal’s striker search has intensified with Benjamin Sesko firmly at the forefront. According to Sky Sports, the Gunners held a discreet meeting in London regarding the RB Leipzig forward, who is expected to command a fee nearing £70 million this summer.

It’s the kind of proactive move that reflects Arsenal’s growing ambition — no longer content to wait for opportunities, they’re now attempting to shape them.

Strategic Planning Behind the Scenes

The transfer window may still be in its early stages, but Arsenal’s intent is already clear.

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Sky in Germany reports that, “New Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta recently held a ‘secret meeting’ with his RB Leipzig counterpart Marcel Schafer in London to discuss a Sesko deal.”

It was more than a polite introduction. Payment terms, clause structures, and valuations were all reportedly on the agenda. The Slovenian striker’s release clause, based on appearances and goal contributions, has now risen as high as £69 million (€82m).

This is far from a one-off flirtation. Arsenal’s interest in Sesko stretches back to last summer. Though he eventually extended his contract with Leipzig until 2029, there was a gentleman’s agreement in place allowing him to stay until at least this summer. Now, with Leipzig missing out on Champions League qualification, the door is ajar.

Numbers Backing the Hype

Sesko is not just another name in a long list of promising forwards. The 21-year-old has delivered, scoring 21 goals and registering six assists in all competitions, including four goals in the Champions League — a stage he clearly belongs on.

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It’s no surprise, then, that Sky Sports News understands Sesko is keen to move to a club that can compete for the Champions League and domestic title. Arsenal fit that description, having taken Manchester City to the final weeks in the most recent Premier League title race and progressing steadily in Europe.

Other Targets Still in Frame

While Sesko leads the conversation, Arsenal’s recruitment strategy remains broad.

“Sesko is not the only striker under consideration at the Emirates… with Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and others still very much among their targets,” Sky Sports reports.

It’s a necessary approach. For all his quality, Sesko would arrive in north London as a developing star rather than the finished article. Gyokeres, more experienced and physically dominant, could offer a different threat. Arsenal’s interest in multiple profiles shows that they are considering not just who they want, but how those options fit Mikel Arteta’s evolving system.

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Transfer Market Quietly Accelerating

These early moves hint at a decisive summer. Arsenal have operated more shrewdly in recent windows, bolstering their spine and refining their identity. A marquee striker is arguably the final piece, particularly with Gabriel Jesus’ injury issues and Kai Havertz thriving in a more fluid role.

Whether it’s Sesko, Gyokeres, or another name, Arsenal are planning ahead — not just for next season, but for the next three or four.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Arsenal fans, the renewed push for Benjamin Sesko is encouraging. This isn’t a scattergun transfer rumour. It’s the result of long-term interest and meticulous scouting. Fans will remember the club being linked with Sesko last summer, and the fact that the club has kept tabs — and now initiated key talks — shows this is part of a wider plan.

Sesko’s numbers this season are promising, but it’s his potential that excites most. He’s tall, technically sharp, and plays with a fearlessness that feels tailor-made for the Premier League. He also has that rare ability to stretch a defence, something Arsenal occasionally lack when faced with compact blocks.

Yes, £69 million is a serious fee, but if Arsenal are to make the leap from contenders to champions, they must take bold steps. Whether it’s Sesko or Gyokeres, it’s time the Gunners brought in a centre-forward who can deliver goals in volume.

There’s still work to do, and competition from other clubs is likely, but the early groundwork puts Arsenal in a strong position — and supporters will hope that decisiveness in the boardroom is matched by firepower on the pitch.