Arsenal’s summer striker search has hit complications, with two major targets, Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, facing stalled negotiations due to price disputes and transfer drama.
RB Leipzig have placed a steep valuation on Sesko, demanding between €80 million and €100 million (£69m–£86m), a figure Arsenal are unwilling to match. Although the Gunners maintain contact with Sesko’s representatives, there’s no deal yet on personal terms, and no official offer has been submitted.
Sesko, who extended his Leipzig stay last year by removing a previous £55 million release clause, remains interested in a potential move to the Emirates. The Slovenian forward isn’t forcing an exit, but Arsenal’s patience is being tested as they weigh up their options.
Meanwhile, Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres has also been a top Arsenal target. However, efforts to land the Sweden international have been severely hampered by a dispute between the player, his agent, and the Portuguese club over a supposed release agreement.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta held talks with Sporting last week, offering a deal worth €55 million upfront with €10 million in add-ons. That proposal was swiftly rejected.
Sporting president Frederico Varandas has denied any pre-agreed release figure of €60m plus €10m in add-ons, creating friction with Gyokeres’ camp. The feud has disrupted negotiations and introduced uncertainty into the striker’s situation.
With both pursuits now in limbo—one due to Leipzig’s soaring asking price, the other tied to legal and contractual disagreements—Arsenal are rethinking their forward strategy.
As things stand, the Gunners have paused their interest in Gyokeres and are hesitant to meet Sesko’s valuation. Unless conditions change, Arsenal’s plans to sign a marquee centre forward could remain on hold.