Sesko sends new Arsenal transfer message after shock Viktor Gyokeres decision

In the battle of two Arsenal transfer targets going up against each other, Benjamin Sesko gained the early advantage over Viktor Gyokeres. The two strikers have been strongly linked with January moves to the Gunners with the goals flying in for both over the last few months.

Mikel Arteta has been impacted significantly by attacking injuries before and during the winter window which has seen the club actively seek new signings at the top end of the pitch. Sesko and Gyokeres have been the two names strongly linked with exits expected for both in 2025 from RB Leipzig and Sporting CP, respectively.

Over the last few weeks, exact asking prices for both have varied but there is believed to be an agreement that if a suitable offer arrives for either, they will be free to depart. Though Arsenal are in contact with Sesko's camp, a January loan move looks unlikely and a significant proposal arriving from Emirates Stadium is also hard to foresee.

As a result, the Gunners have recently stepped up their pursuit of Matheus Cunha as he looks set to leave Wolves with Nottingham Forest interested. Despite that, interest in Sesko has remained and for two reasons, it is clear to see why he has admirers in north London.

Having been absent from Leipzig's Bundesliga clash this past weekend due to suspension, the Slovenia international returned to the starting XI for his side's Champions League clash against Gyokeres' Sporting. Surprisingly, the latter was named on the bench for the second consecutive game.

The 26-year-old was rested for the Portuguese league clash against Rio Ave over the weekend, but he did come on for the final nine minutes which was enough time to score goal number 33 of the season and make it 3-0 to Sporting. A clean sheet in Germany was not achieved however, with Sesko scoring after 19 minutes.

As Leipzig advanced down the left, he was found at the back post by David Raum with Sesko sliding home the game's opening goal from just a few yards out. The 21-year-old then began his celebration, but rather than going off by himself, he headed straight over to Raum before appearing to encourage his teammates to keep pushing.

That decision is rather telling of his character and may well be further proof that he would thrive in an Arsenal shirt where the expectations are high. Later in the clash, Gyokeres was unsurprisingly introduced and after being played through on goal, equalised in emphatic fashion with his left foot.