Arsenal face shock competition for Sesko

Cameron Smith

• 24 Sept 2024 20:45 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are reportedly set to rival Arsenal in the race to sign RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko.

The 21-year-old was heavily linked with a move to Arsenal at the start of this summer, but he opted to snub interest from Mikel Arteta’s side in order to sign a contract extension with Leipzig.

However, Sesko remains a key target for the Gunners as they look to sign a new number nine, and he is expected to be the subject of significant attention in 2025.

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While Arsenal continue to monitor the Slovenia international’s progress in Germany, they are set to face immense competition for his signature next year.

Despite the summer addition of Joshua Zirkzee and the presence of Rasmus Hojlund, Man Utd have now entered the race to sign Sesko, according to TEAMtalk.

Erik ten Hag recently lamented his side’s lack of clinical edge and the Man Utd hierarchy are reportedly eager to rectify their current issues by pursuing a move for Sesko next summer.

The Slovenia forward bagged 18 goals in all competitions during his debut campaign at RB Leipzig, but he is yet to score in four Bundesliga appearances so far this season.

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Arsenal’s Benjamin Sesko alternatives

With Man Utd interested in signing Sesko next year, Arsenal have identified a number of possible alternatives to the RB Leipzig star.

As per TEAMtalk, the Gunners are also looking at Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram, while Viktor Gyokeres has been continuously linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium over the past 12 months.

In addition, Arsenal also hold an interest in Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic and Lille’s Jonathan David as they look to sign a new number nine in 2025.

Kai Havertz is currently Arteta’s preferred centre-forward, although the Germany international is arguably yet to justify his €75 million price tag.