Arsenal target Benjamin Sesko is expected to cost almost £70m this summer.

Sky in Germany are reporting that new Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta recently held a “secret meeting” with his RB Leipzig counterpart Marcel Schafer in London to discuss a Sesko deal.

And his variable release clause, based on appearances and goals, has reached as high as £69m (€82m), as the pair are said to have discussed payment terms and structures over a potential deal for the Slovenia striker.

Sesko is not the only striker under consideration at the Emirates, however, with Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and others still very much among their targets.

Arsenal have a long-term interest in Sesko. Sky Sports News reported in January that the club were seriously considering a move – but his agent ruled it out due to a gentleman’s agreement with Leipzig to stay at least until this summer.

The Gunners also wanted Sesko last summer too, only for him to extend his contract with the German club until 2029. RB Leipzig are now willing to let the him leave after failing to qualify for the Champions League.

Sky Sports News understands that Sesko is keen to move to a club that can compete for the Champions League and domestic title.

Sesko scored 21 goals and has six assists in all competitions this season, including four in the Champions League.

‘Arsenal will sign a striker this summer’

Sky Sports News’ chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol:

“We have heard from Mikel Arteta that when Arsenal come calling, players most often say yes. They find it difficult to turn them down.

“I’m sure he has been very impressed by what Mikel Arteta is doing at Arsenal.

“Not the last. Arsenal will sign a striker this summer. I think they will sign a world-class striker, like Victor Gyokeres from Sporting or Benajmin Sesko from RB Leipzig.

“It will be Zubimendi and a striker, as well as other players. Next season, he [Arteta] wants to win the the title. He has been putting pressure on the board.

“They will be active in the window.”

Credit: Sky Sports