Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are entering the summer transfer window with a clear mission: to strengthen their squad after a trophyless campaign that exposed the limitations of their depth. But just as the Gunners begin to move for their top targets, Bayern Munich have stepped into the frame—and their interest could throw a wrench in Arsenal’s carefully laid plans.

Two of Arsenal’s most sought-after reinforcements—Benjamin Sesko and Nico Williams—have now also caught the attention of the Bavarian giants, and that spells potential trouble for the North London club.

Arsenal’s search for a dynamic centre-forward has brought them back to Benjamin Sesko, a name that’s been on their radar since last summer. The RB Leipzig striker has impressed with his physical presence, intelligent movement, and eye for goal—attributes that Arteta views as vital to complementing his front line. After another productive season in Germany, the Gunners had reopened talks with Leipzig, hoping to finally land their man.

But now, Bayern Munich are circling.

Reports out of Germany suggest the Bundesliga champions are seriously considering Sesko as a long-term successor—or possibly a partner—to Harry Kane. One idea floated involves Kane dropping deeper into a more creative role while Sesko leads the line. It’s an appealing concept for Bayern, who are eager to evolve their attacking options after a disappointing domestic campaign.

This move could complicate Arsenal’s efforts in more ways than one. First, Bayern’s interest could inflate Sesko’s price, with Leipzig reportedly open to negotiating around the €70m mark. Second, the lure of immediate silverware and playing in a team built to dominate the Bundesliga might give Bayern an edge if it comes down to the player’s choice.

And while Arsenal have Champions League football and an exciting project under Arteta, Bayern’s track record of success and financial muscle can’t be ignored. It’s a transfer battle that could go deep into the summer—and one Arsenal can’t afford to lose without a strong backup plan.

Arsenal’s ambitions don’t stop at a new striker. Arteta also has his eye on Nico Williams, the electric Athletic Bilbao winger whose performances in La Liga and for Spain have caught Europe’s attention. Fast, direct, and capable of playing on either flank, Williams is viewed as a solution to Arsenal’s over-reliance on Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.

But once again, Bayern are lurking.

With Leroy Sané’s exit leaving a gap in their wide attacking options, the German champions have reportedly turned to Williams as a potential replacement. The Spaniard’s €60m release clause makes him an accessible target—and given Bayern’s tendency to act quickly when they identify talent, Arsenal must act fast to avoid being left behind.

Williams has previously expressed loyalty to Bilbao, calling the club his home and emphasizing how carefully he’s weighed past offers. However, he’s also admitted that top clubs have come calling, and the right project could change his mind. Bayern’s stature and the opportunity to compete for domestic and European titles could be persuasive.

To complicate matters further, Barcelona have also entered the conversation, reportedly opening discussions with the player’s camp. Arsenal, once thought to be in pole position, now face a three-way tug of war for one of Europe’s most promising wingers.