Arsenal are focusing on a deal to sign Benjamin Sesko before Euro 2024, but Chelsea are ready to rival them in the race for the striker.

Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko celebrates scoring the second goal during the German first division Bundesliga football match between Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany on May 18, 2024. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko celebrates scoring the second goal during the German first division Bundesliga football match between Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany on May 18, 2024. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)

The Athletic report that Arsenal’s current focus in the market is on signing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.

The outlet claim that other clubs involved in the race believe the Gunners to be the favourites for the transfer, but it’s not a sure thing, with Leipzig still working to convince the player to stay.

Elsewhere, The Standard report that Chelsea retain strong interest in Sesko and are still confident they can rival Arsenal for a deal.

Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko celebrates scoring during the German first division Bundesliga football match between RB Leipzig and Werder Bremen in Leipzig, eastern Germany on May 11, 2024. (Photo by RONNY HARTMANN/AFP via Getty Images)
Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko celebrates scoring during the German first division Bundesliga football match between RB Leipzig and Werder Bremen in Leipzig, eastern Germany on May 11, 2024. (Photo by RONNY HARTMANN/AFP via Getty Images)

According to Nick Purewal’s report, both Arsenal and Chelsea are in a strong position, but whilst Arsenal will look to do a deal below the player’s €65m (£55.4m) release clause, Chelsea may be willing to activate it.

Purewal agrees with The Athletic’s assessment that Arsenal have been given encouragement that they hold an early edge right now, but that won’t put Chelsea off.

The good news is that recent reports have suggested that AC Milan are out of the race, as the move isn’t viable for the Serie A club.

Sesko is expected to decide his future before the Euros, whether that’s to sign a new contract with Leipzig or to leave on a permanent deal.

Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko reacts during the German first division Bundesliga football match between Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany on May 18, 2024. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)
Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko reacts during the German first division Bundesliga football match between Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig in Frankfurt am Main, western Germany on May 18, 2024. (Photo by KIRILL KUDRYAVTSEV/AFP via Getty Images)

Sesko has been called up by Slovenia, and his €65m (£55.4m) release clause will expire at the end of June, so it makes sense to get the deal done quickly.

The striker scored 18 goals and provided two assists in 42 games (22 starts) this season, averaging a goal or assist every 103 minutes. He ended the season with goals in seven consecutive Bundesliga fixtures.