Arsenal and other Premier League clubs will reportedly be able to activate a release clause in the contract of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko from this summer onwards.
The 21-year-old Slovenia international has scored 35 goals in 76 games since signing from Red Bull Salzburg in 2023. Such form has resulted in Sesko being linked with a move to the Premier League and, more specifically, Arsenal, who were touted with a move for the forward last summer. However, Sesko extended his stay in Germany until 2029 by signing a new deal with Leipzig last June.
But now Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg claims that Sesko has “formally fixed” a release clause in his contract, starting this summer. Writing on X, Plettenberg said: “Until now, there had only been talk of a verbal agreement, but Benjamin Sesko has a formally fixed release clause in his contract until 2029.
“This clause can be activated starting this summer. It is tied to various parameters – such as games played, goals, and assists – and increases regularly.
“Currently, the clause stands at around €70m for the 21-y/o top striker, but by the end of the season, it is expected to reach approximately €80m (£66m).
“All top English clubs have expressed interest, including Manchester United, Tottenham, and Arsenal. The only club not involved in the race is Manchester City.”
Arsenal failed in their pursuit to bring a striker to the club in January after injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus and, as a result, have had to play Mikel Merino in attack in recent Premier League outings. Last month, it was reported by The Athletic that Mikel Arteta was aligned with the Gunners’ decision not to sign a striker in the mid-season window, with long-term targets Sesko and Alexander Isak not available until the summer.
