Arsenal’s pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko may not have ended in success this summer, but according to journalist Charles Watts, the Gunners’ approach to the transfer window didn’t hinge on securing a new striker. In his exclusive column for CaughtOffside, Watts provided insights into how Arsenal managed their transfer strategy after the Sesko deal fell through.
Watts explained that while Sesko is indeed an exciting talent, Arsenal did not prioritize signing a new forward ahead of this season. The club had been tracking Sesko for some time, recognizing that his release clause offered a potential bargain compared to his market value. However, even if Arsenal had managed to secure the deal, Sesko was never intended to be a first-choice starter. Instead, he would have been more of a developmental signing, gradually integrating into the squad with plenty of game time, but not necessarily displacing established players like Kai Havertz or Gabriel Jesus.
The decision not to pursue a Plan B after missing out on Sesko suggests that Arsenal was confident in the attacking options already available within the squad. Despite the risk of entering the new season without an additional striker, the Gunners were content with their current lineup. Havertz’s strong form and Gabriel Jesus’s presence, even with his injury concerns, provided Arsenal with sufficient firepower up front.
Watts also highlighted that Arsenal’s summer transfer strategy was more about capitalizing on specific opportunities rather than filling perceived gaps. The club viewed Sesko’s availability as a chance worth exploring, but they were never desperate to bring in a new center forward. After the Sesko deal didn’t materialize, the focus shifted to other positions, with a winger being a more likely addition during the remaining time in the transfer window.
Arsenal’s calculated approach shows their confidence in the existing squad while remaining opportunistic in the transfer market. As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to see if this decision pays off, especially if Sesko continues to develop and attract attention from other top clubs in the future.
