Mikel Arteta tears up Arsenal transfer plans after Benjamin Sesko snub

Arsenal are set to prioritise the signing of a central midfielder after missing out on a deal for Benjamin Sesko.

The Gunners are expected to be active in the transfer market again this summer after just coming up short in the Premier League title race. Mikel Arteta's men were outdone by Manchester City for a second successive season and will try again to overhaul Pep Guardiola's all-conquering side next year after strengthening their squad.

After keeping their powder dry in January, it had previously been reported that signing a striker was at the top of Arsenal's agenda, with Sesko, 21, a top target. But with the Slovenia international opting to sign a new contract with RB Leipzig last week, Arsenal's transfer plans have changed, according to a new report.

The Athletic have outlined that strengthening in midfield is now a priority, with Arsenal likely to target a No.6. The club signed Declan Rice for a record £105million last year, but his marauding performances have convinced Arteta to give the England star a permanent license to roam.

That means that a new defensive midfielder will be targeted as part of an overhaul of the Gunners' engine room, with the club also open to offers for Thomas Partey. Mohamed Elneny has already left the Emirates following the expiration of his contract, although Jorginho is still in Arteta's plans after penning a 12-month contract extension last month.

Sesko was being courted by a host of top Premier League clubs and had indicated that Arsenal were his preferred destination before committing his future to RB Leipzig before the start of Euro 2024.

Despite his interest in a move to the Emirates, Sesko explained that staying at Leipzig felt like the "logical step" for him. He said: “I had a good first year at RB Leipzig and am incredibly happy to be here. Team, club, city, fans - the overall package remains simply outstanding for me. The early contract extension is therefore the logical step for me.

“Even though I didn’t play or score as much in the first half of the season, this phase was very important for me and my development. I feel a lot of trust and appreciation throughout the club and that is crucial for being able to deliver my best performances. In the second half of the season in particular, I was able to give a lot back with my goals.

“We have a team with great potential and a balanced mix of young and experienced players. I just really want to take the next steps together with this team.

“We have already achieved a lot in my first season and often showed what quality and outstanding football we can bring to the pitch. But there is still a lot to be done and that is now our common goal.”