Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta could face stiff competition from Barcelona in the race to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko this summer. Both clubs are looking to bolster their attacking options, with the 21-year-old emerging as a potential solution.
The Gunners showcased their attacking prowess with a dominant 7-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League, virtually securing their place in the quarter-finals. However, in the Premier League, Arsenal have fallen 13 points behind leaders Liverpool, making a title challenge increasingly unlikely. Injuries to key forwards have also hampered their domestic campaign.
Arteta has been forced to adapt, even using midfielder Mikel Merino as a makeshift striker in recent weeks. Given their depleted attacking ranks, it is no surprise that Arsenal are linked with Sesko. However, reports from Fichajes suggest that Barcelona are also considering him as a long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski.
Arsenal’s lack of a consistent goal-scoring striker has been evident, as they rank only eighth in expected goals (xG) in the Premier League. With injuries to Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli, the team has struggled in front of goal, scoring 15 fewer times than Liverpool. Sesko, a physical and combative forward, could offer a strong focal point for Martin Odegaard and Arsenal’s attacking play.
Despite his potential, Sesko has managed just 10 Bundesliga goals this season, raising questions about whether he is ready to be a starting striker for a top European club. A gradual introduction to Arsenal’s first XI might be necessary, allowing him to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity.
Barcelona, meanwhile, secured a 1-0 win over Benfica in the Champions League last 16, with Raphinha scoring his 25th goal of the season. The Brazilian has flourished alongside Lewandowski, who remains a prolific scorer with 35 goals this campaign. However, at 36 years old, Lewandowski’s longevity is uncertain, making the search for a successor a priority.
Sesko’s physicality and movement could make him an ideal fit alongside Raphinha and rising star Lamine Yamal. He could initially serve as cover for Lewandowski before gradually taking over more minutes in Barcelona’s frontline. His ability to link up play and provide a strong aerial presence would add another dimension to Xavi’s attack.
With both Arsenal and Barcelona interested, Sesko’s future remains undecided. The Slovenian striker will have a big decision to make this summer, as he weighs his options between the Premier League and La Liga.