"We have to see when I’m ready" - Arsenal target suggests he eventually wants Premier League move despite renewing contract
Benjamin Sesko has given Arsenal hope of a future move to the Emirates by talking up a Premier League move. The RB Leipzig striker was linked with the Gunners earlier this summer but signed a contract extension, which expires in 2029.
The 21-year-old 6ft5in Slovenian frontman opened up on the prospect of playing in the English top flight. He said (via Sport Witness):
"Every player I know watches Premier League games. In the end, we have to see when I’m ready for something."
Sesko was sensational for Leipzig last season, registering 18 goals and two assists in 42 games across competitions. He was one of Europe's most prolific forwards.
Arsenal were reportedly at the front of the queue to sign Sesko heading into the summer transfer window. Reports claimed the Gunners were weighing up triggering his £64 million release clause.
The 33-cap Slovenia international instead opted to remain with the Bundesliga club. He's been with Marco Rose's side since July 2023, when he arrived from RB Salzburg for a reported £55 million.
Mikel Arteta has yet to make an attacking addition to his squad this summer despite question marks over his team's firepower. Arsenal's two strikers, Gabriel Jesus (eight goals) and Eddie Nketiah (six goals), struggled for goals on all fronts.
"The right decision" - Benjamin Sesko has no regrets turning down Arsenal
Sesko was adamant he made the right decision to extend his stay at Leipzig rather than move elsewhere with Arsenal frontrunners. He said:
"I thought it through very well. I believe I made the right decision. I wanted to gain more experience, learn more, and not rush things."
Leipzig finished fourth in the Bundesliga table last season with 65 points from 34 games. They won the German Super Cup to kickstart the campaign with a famous 3-0 win against Bayern Munich.
Sesko spoke highly of his current club and how he can progress further at the Red Bull Arena:
"Leipzig is an excellent club that can provide what I need for the next step. Leipzig’s vision is clear; everything is geared towards growth, progress, and high goals. I felt it was right to decide this way."
Sesko's stock has grown in the Bundesliga and perhaps following in Erling Haaland's footsteps. Manchester City's Norweigan goalscoring machine caught the eye while at Borussia Dortmund before heading to the Etihad in the summer of 2022.