Arsenal lead Chelsea in race to sign 'spectacular' £64m striker as new development emerges

Arsenal are in the market for a centre-forward and have been linked with several options across Europe, but competition for their key targets will be fierce.

A Premier League-proven option has been linked in Alexander Isak, but a deal looks incredibly difficult, whilst Viktor Gyokeres is of interest given his outstanding goal record this season.

Mikel Arteta does want to strengthen his attacking options, but the recent strong form of Kai Havertz as a striker has perhaps reduced the necessity for an established goalscorer to come in, and a younger prospect could still help improve the squad.

Arsenal are reportedly the frontrunners to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, who would fit this bill as an elite talent with potential to improve, and a new development has now emerged.

Fabrizio Romano reveals update on Arsenal interest in Benjamin Sesko

In his Daily Briefing, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed that despite recent reports, there is nothing concrete in Arsenal’s interest in Sesko, whilst Chelsea are also keen on him.

“I’m aware that there’s been a lot of talk among Arsenal fans about Benjamin Sesko, with speculation hotting up that he’s high up on their list of targets up front this summer, while it’s also been claimed that other clubs in the race for Sesko believe Arsenal are in pole position,” he explained.

“My understanding remains that there are four or five clubs interested in Sesko as I’ve been saying since January and I’m told that nothing has changed at this stage. There are no negotiations yet, just interest from clubs in the Premier League and not only.

“Sesko is appreciated by Arsenal but it’s the same for Viktor Gyokeres and Alexander Isak, for example, so I’m not sure we’re at the moment yet to be talking about any one of these specific targets advancing to anything more concrete.”

What Benjamin Sesko would bring to Arsenal

Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images

The 20-year-old has been phenomenal in the Bundesliga this season, with 13 goals and two assists in 30 appearances.

Sesko has a release clause which has now risen to around £64m, but whilst this price may be considered steep, Arsenal would be better off paying that now, rather than waiting a year and paying significantly more if he continues to improve.

READ MORE: Arsenal’s 25 most expensive transfers and record signings of all time

The Slovenian has been described as “spectacular” amid comparisons with Erling Haaland, and at 1.95m tall, he would provide an aerial threat in addition to his speed.

He has scored in each of his last six league games in a row, and would arrive as an option who has already impressed in the Champions League, who can initially play understudy to Havertz, whilst also adding goals and physicality to the front line.