Arsenal ‘in talks’ with Bundesliga side for top striker target as ‘gentleman’s agreement’ eases January transfer

Arsenal are reportedly engaged in negotiations with RB Leipzig over a potential January transfer for Benjamin Šeško as the club seeks to capitalize on the striker’s rumored “gentleman’s agreement.” Manager Mikel Arteta is keen to bolster his attacking options this month following a series of injuries to key players. Gabriel Jesus has been sidelined with a torn ACL sustained during a match against Manchester United, while Bukayo Saka is also expected to be out of action for up to three months.

Arteta did not shy away from addressing the situation publicly. Speaking to Rio Ferdinand on TNT Sports, he confirmed Arsenal’s intent to recruit a striker during the transfer window. “Yes, for sure,” Arteta said. “Because we lost two players, big players, Bukayo [Saka], who can be out for up to three months—that’s a long time—and Gabby, who is going to be out for a long, long, long time.” The manager’s statement highlighted the urgency with which Arsenal are approaching this transfer window, as they look to maintain momentum in their pursuit of both domestic and European success.

One name that has consistently been linked with Arsenal is Viktor Gyökeres. Reports suggest the Gunners are prepared to challenge Manchester United for the Swedish forward, whose impressive performances have drawn the attention of several top clubs. Gyökeres, currently at Sporting CP, has emerged as a priority target for clubs seeking a versatile and prolific striker. Arsenal’s interest in Gyökeres underscores their commitment to securing a forward capable of leading the line and contributing significantly to their attack.

Another potential target for Arsenal is Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. Arteta is said to be an admirer of the Congolese forward, whose dynamic style of play and ability to operate across the front line make him an appealing option. Wissa’s versatility could be particularly valuable for Arsenal, given their need to adapt to injuries and maintain their attacking fluidity.

However, the name generating the most buzz is Benjamin Šeško. The 20-year-old Slovenian forward, currently with RB Leipzig, has long been on Arsenal’s radar. Reports suggest Arsenal are keen to “explore a deal in the summer” for Šeško, who is regarded as a “long-term target.” While a January transfer is considered unlikely due to the high cost involved, it is not entirely off the table. Securing Šeško during the winter window would require Arsenal to make a substantial financial commitment, but the player’s potential and skill set make him a highly attractive prospect.

Šeško was linked with Arsenal during the summer transfer window, but the striker opted to remain at Leipzig, reportedly due to concerns about being second choice to Kai Havertz. This decision highlighted the importance of providing a clear role for potential signings, especially for young talents eager to continue their development. If Arsenal are to persuade Šeško to move in January, they will need to address these concerns and offer assurances about his place in the squad.

Despite the growing speculation, some reports have cast doubt on the likelihood of Šeško joining Arsenal in January. Speaking to NBC, David Ornstein of The Athletic provided a more cautious perspective, suggesting that a winter move for Šeško is improbable. “We hear names like Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus—initial inquiries tell me that that one is unlikely,” Ornstein said. “Benjamin Šeško, another long-term target, he’s unlikely to move in the January transfer window. Never say never, but that’s more likely a summer departure if he leaves RB Leipzig.”

Ornstein’s comments reflect the challenges Arsenal face in their pursuit of top-tier strikers during the notoriously difficult January window. Clubs are often reluctant to part with key players mid-season, and the premium prices associated with winter transfers can complicate negotiations. Nevertheless, Arsenal’s proactive approach and willingness to explore multiple options demonstrate their determination to strengthen the squad and remain competitive on all fronts.

The Telegraph has also reported on Arsenal’s interest in Šeško, noting the club’s intention to “explore a deal in the summer” while acknowledging that a January transfer is “not impossible.” This aligns with the club’s strategy of targeting young, high-potential players who can contribute immediately while also serving as long-term assets.

Arsenal’s transfer activity has become a focal point of discussion, with fans and pundits alike speculating on potential signings. The club’s recent history in the transfer market has been characterized by strategic investments in players like Martin Ødegaard, Gabriel Jesus, and William Saliba, all of whom have played key roles in Arsenal’s resurgence under Arteta. Adding a striker of Šeško’s caliber would be consistent with this approach and could provide the firepower needed to sustain Arsenal’s title challenge.

While the pursuit of Šeško and other targets remains uncertain, Arsenal’s intent is clear. Arteta and the club’s hierarchy recognize the importance of addressing the team’s needs during this critical period, and they appear willing to invest in the right players to achieve their goals. Whether through the acquisition of Šeško, Gyökeres, Wissa, or another forward, Arsenal’s actions in the January transfer window will have significant implications for the remainder of their season.

In the meantime, Arsenal must navigate the challenges of competing without two of their most influential players. The absence of Saka and Jesus places additional pressure on the likes of Leandro Trossard, Eddie Nketiah, and Gabriel Martinelli to deliver consistent performances. It also underscores the need for depth and versatility in the squad, qualities that a new signing could help provide.

The next few weeks will be a defining period for Arsenal, both on and off the pitch. The decisions made during the January transfer window will shape the team’s trajectory and determine their ability to compete at the highest level. For Arteta, the task is to balance short-term needs with long-term ambitions, ensuring that any additions to the squad align with the club’s vision for sustained success.

As the transfer window unfolds, Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker will be closely watched by fans, pundits, and rivals alike. The stakes are high, and the club’s actions will reflect their ambition and determination to reclaim their place among Europe’s elite. Whether it is Šeško, Gyökeres, Wissa, or another forward, the arrival of a new striker could be the catalyst for a successful second half of the season.