RB Leipzig's asking price for Arsenal transfer target Benjamin Sesko - revealed

RB Leipzig have reportedly set their asking price for Arsenal transfer target Benjamin Sesko this month.

We're approaching the final ten days of the January transfer window and the Gunners are yet to make a move. Despite their injury woes and the threat of stagnation following back-to-back second place finishes in the Premier League, the board are seemingly standing still.

Mikel Arteta, who shouldn't be absolved from blame for the make-up of this sturdy squad which lacks craft and individual brilliance, is well aware of Arsenal's current limitations and the need for winter reinforcements. He's almost been pleading with the hierarchy in recent press conferences, but there's so far been very little movement.

Sesko has popped up as a potential option given Arsenal's interest last summer and their current requirements in attacking areas. While reputable sources have played down an Arsenal move for the 21-year-old this month, the Gunners should be encouraged by Leipzig's reported asking price.

Arsenal would not have to break the bank to sign Benjamin Sesko this month

Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri understands that the German club would be tempted by bids of £67m for Sesko this month. Arsenal were keen on signing the Slovenian international for £55m (release clause) before he extended his deal with Leipzig last June. Will that reported £12m hike deter the north London club?

Given what we've seen top-level forwards move on for in recent years, £67m for a forward boasting the potential to become one of the world's best at his position is a lot of money, but not extortionate. We can all agree that this would be a risk worth taking, right?

Dominic Solanke joined Tottenham for £65m last summer, Atletico Madrid splurged £82m to get Julian Alvarez, and Manchester United spent almost £100m to bring in Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund. No matter the success of those moves, this is the reality Arsenal are living in. To sign the calibre of talent capable of thrusting them to glory, the Gunners are going to have to pay a premium.

Worryingly, other clubs are beginning to circle for Sesko. Tavolieri writes that Chelsea have joined Arsenal in the race for the 21-year-old. The Blues, however, are more likely to move in the summer. There's still a window for the Gunners for act before Clearlake & Co. swoop with ruthless efficiency.

We know Sesko is a forward Arteta likes, otherwise there wouldn't have been any interest before Euro 2024. The striker is raw but blessed with the tools to develop into something quite special. Given what we know about the stability of Arsenal's finances, £67m would not be breaking the bank.

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