Arsenal target Benjamin Sesko's asking price 'changes' as transfer U-turn made

Arsenal's pursuit of Benjamin Sesko has received a boost as RB Leipzig reportedly lowered their asking price. The Gunners have yet to secure a centre-forward in the summer transfer window, but Sesko remains their primary transfer target.

Mikel Arteta recognises the need for a top-tier striker to enhance their attack following a third consecutive second-place finish in the Premier League. Sporting director Andrea Berta is responsible for securing one and has considered deals for Sesko and Sporting Lisbon's Viktor Gyokeres.

However, there has been a recent lull in activity, much to the frustration of some fans who are eager for a striker to be signed. Yet, it appears that Arsenal's patience may pay off, with Bild reporting that Leipzig are softening their previous stance.

It was initially believed that the German team were demanding a fee ranging from £68million to £85m for Sesko. This deterred the Premier League side, who responded by considering other options.

But now it seems a U-turn has been made and that a fee of £59.7m could suffice for the 22-year-old, who is contracted with Leipzig until June 2029 and netted 21 goals in 45 matches across all competitions last season.

Arsenal have been eyeing Sesko for quite some time, favouring his youth and Bundesliga experience over Viktor Gyokeres. While the Gunners are keen on signing him, Sesko's agent, Elvis Basanovic, is determined to handle negotiations with RB Leipzig honourably.

"This is far from truth", Basanovic replied when asked about rumours that he had been pushing Leipzig for a lower fee.

"We respect RB Leipzig and I am 100 per cent convinced RB Leipzig will also respect our decision for the next step when we decide to do it. 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.

"I believe this is not the right way, because the way you actually exit from the club shows your values. Values that you are bringing into a new club. I can understand in very big transfers, there are a lot of different interests but no matter what, I believe in football world should be more respect.

"So that's why we do things in the right way or we don't do them. It's very simple, even maybe in the media it looks very complicated."