London – June 22, 2025 Arsenal’s pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has reportedly hit a roadblock, with the club growing increasingly frustrated over the player’s wage demands. The Gunners have long identified the 22-year-old Slovenian as a top attacking target and had bids for him turned down last summer and again in January. With a release clause of around £70 million, Sesko remains Arsenal’s priority signing as they look to bolster their frontline following a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League. However, according to reports from DailyMail, negotiations have become tense due to the striker’s financial expectations. Sesko is said to be demanding a salary significantly higher than what Arsenal had initially budgeted, a situation that could jeopardize the transfer. The wage dispute may force the North London club to reconsider their position or shift their focus to alternative targets. One of those alternatives is Sporting Lisbon’s Victor Gyökeres, who is valued at approximately £60 million. Despite being aware that he is not Arsenal’s first-choice option, the Swedish forward is reportedly eager to move to the Premier League after a prolific season in Portugal, scoring 53 goals and registering 13 assists in 52 appearances. Sporting are open to selling Gyökeres, and Arsenal’s sporting director Andrea Berta is reportedly keen to avoid missing out on both forwards as the club seeks to strengthen its attacking options. Amid the ongoing speculation, Sesko’s agent, Elvis Basanovic, commented on the situation, stressing the importance of professionalism and respect in transfer negotiations. “Even if there may be – or will be – a strong desire of the player to move to a certain club, we will never force or blackmail RB Leipzig,” Basanovic told GiveMeSport. “I believe this is not the right way, because the way you actually exit from the club shows your values.” Sesko, who has also attracted interest from several top European clubs and reportedly turned down an offer from Saudi club Al-Hilal, has yet to publicly comment on the transfer saga. With pre-season fast approaching, Arsenal’s next move could determine whether the club finally lands their long-term target or turns fully to Gyökeres as a fallback.
Arsenal Frustrated Over Sesko’s Wage Demands as Transfer Talks Stall
