Benjamin Sesko remains loyal to RB Leipzig. In recent weeks, many top English clubs have shown interest in the 21-year-old Slovenian striker, but Sesko has now extended his contract in Germany until mid-2029.
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Reportedly, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Arsenal had serious interest in the forward, who scored fourteen Bundesliga goals last season.
However, Sesko himself prefers to stay in Germany for a while longer. Through RB Leipzig's channels, he stated that he is not yet finished at the club, followed by the news that he has extended his contract until the summer of 2029.
Sesko comes from the Red Bull school. He played in the youth academy at Red Bull Salzburg, which picked him up from Slovenian club NK Domzale. Sesko broke through at FC Liefering, where he scored 21 goals in 29 matches during the 2020/21 season. After his loan period, he became the first-choice striker at RB Salzburg, which sold him to RB Leipzig last summer for 24 million euros. Additionally, he has 29 caps for Slovenia and will be seen at the European Championship.
With the option of Sesko off the table, Manchester United’s list of striker targets now includes only three names, according to ESPN's British branch. Erik ten Hag's club is looking for a forward following the departure of Anthony Martial on a free transfer. Ivan Toney, Jonathan David, and Joshua Zirkzee are the main candidates.
According to Sky Sports, Arsenal is still in the exploratory phase of their search for a striker. They have considered the options of Toney and Alexander Isak, but last season’s Premier League runners-up are looking for an affordable and young striker. Dominic Solanke, Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyökeres, and Zirkzee are also being mentioned.
Benjamin Sesko, the 21-year-old Slovenian forward, has chosen stability and growth at RB Leipzig over a move to the Premier League. His decision underscores Leipzig's ability to retain top talent amidst fierce competition. Sesko's journey from NK Domzale to Red Bull Salzburg and eventually to Leipzig is a testament to his development and the robust scouting network of the Red Bull organization. His breakthrough at FC Liefering with 21 goals in the 2020/21 season showcased his potential, and his subsequent performances have only reinforced his reputation as a rising star in European football.
Meanwhile, Manchester United is urgently seeking to bolster their attacking options. The departure of Anthony Martial has left a void that Erik ten Hag is keen to fill. Ivan Toney, who has been prolific for Brentford, Jonathan David of Lille, known for his pace and finishing, and Joshua Zirkzee, who has impressed with his versatility, are the primary targets. Each offers a different skill set that could complement United's tactical setup.
Arsenal, still in the early stages of their striker search, is weighing their options carefully. They have shown interest in Ivan Toney and Alexander Isak, but financial considerations and the need for youth have guided them towards other potential candidates. Dominic Solanke has rejuvenated his career at Bournemouth, Victor Osimhen's physicality and goal-scoring record at Napoli make him an attractive option, Viktor Gyökeres has been a standout for Coventry City, and Joshua Zirkzee's potential makes him a valuable prospect.
The strategic decisions by both Manchester United and Arsenal highlight the competitive nature of the transfer market, where finding the right balance between immediate impact and future potential is crucial. As the transfer window progresses, the movements and decisions of clubs and players will continue to shape the landscape of European football.
