Just when Arsenal supporters thought the summer transfer window was moving in the right direction, a fresh twist has emerged—and it could throw a wrench in the club’s plans.

A surprise move from Saudi side Al-Hilal for Benjamin Sesko has now become the latest transfer saga to keep an eye on.

Arsenal’s Eyes on Sesko: A Long-Running Interest

Arsenal’s admiration for RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko isn’t new.

The 22-year-old Slovenian striker has been on the Gunners’ radar for quite a while.

Considered one of Europe’s most promising young goal scorers, Sesko is high on the wish lists of several top clubs.

Arsenal even reportedly took a formal step last week to figure out what it might take to bring him to the Emirates.

The Financial Hurdle: Leipzig’s Big Price Tag

Even though no official bid has been submitted yet, Leipzig is reportedly demanding a hefty fee.

Think along the lines of what Newcastle paid for Alexander Isak or what Hugo Ekitike has been valued at.

Arsenal had been hoping to strike a deal closer to £70 million, but that figure may not be enough, especially with other clubs now circling.

Al-Hilal Crash the Party at the Last Minute

According to Sky Sports, Saudi Pro League powerhouse Al-Hilal are now seriously weighing up a move for Sesko—and they’re doing it fast.

With the Club World Cup just around the corner and the transfer deadline closing at 7 PM tonight, the urgency from Al-Hilal’s side is real.

Originally, they were targeting Victor Osimhen, but when that deal reportedly fell apart, Sesko quickly rose to the top of their list.

This sudden interest could spell trouble for Arsenal’s pursuit.

Inzaghi’s Influence and Club World Cup Ambitions

Al-Hilal is currently led by Simone Inzaghi, the former Inter Milan boss, who’s aiming to make a strong statement by winning silverware at the Club World Cup in the U.S..

Bringing in a goal machine like Sesko would certainly boost their attacking force and ambitions.

Sesko’s Arsenal Dream Could Still Matter

Despite all the noise from the Saudi club, there’s a silver lining for Arsenal.

Reports from Mail Sport suggest Sesko himself is still keen on joining the North London side.

Last season, he racked up 21 goals and six assists across all competitions, including four goals in the Champions League—making it clear why Arsenal remain so determined.

Past Attempts and Forward Frustrations

This isn’t the first time Arsenal has tried to land Sesko.

Their earlier offers—both last May and during the January window—were turned down.

Alongside Sesko, they also made a play for Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but neither deal panned out.

Manager Mikel Arteta faced a tough few months earlier this year when key attackers Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz went down with injuries.

Those setbacks highlighted just how urgently Arsenal needs another quality forward to stay competitive.

What Comes Next?

With the deadline hours away, all eyes are now on whether Arsenal will act fast—or get beaten to the punch.

If Al-Hilal manages to seal the deal, the Gunners could be forced to pivot quickly and identify a backup plan.

For now, Arsenal fans are left holding their breath—hoping the player’s desire to wear the red and white of North London will win out over the allure of Saudi millions.