Arsenal have opened talks with RB Leipzig over a deal for Benjamin Sesko, according to reports in Germany. Mikel Arteta has made the signing of a new striker one of his top priorities for the summer transfer window and Arsenal have already drawn up a shortlist which includes Viktor Gyokeres and Sesko.

Injuries have crippled a squad which Arteta has freely described as “thin”, leaving Arsenal without a recognised centre-forward for most of the campaign’s conclusion. Arteta acknowledged the “need” for more recruits in what he billed as “a very exciting summer”.