‘I believe’ - Newcastle United snubbed as £55m goal machine breaks silence on transfer saga
Newcastle United, Arsenal and several Champions League clubs were linked with RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko is confident he made the “right decision” to stay at RB Leipzig this summer.
European heavyweights were queuing up to sign the Slovenian following Euro 2024. Sesko - likened to Manchester City talisman Erling Haaland - bagged 18 goals last season and had a reported £55million release clause.
Many expected the 21-year-old to jump ship after Slovenia’s exit but he has committed his future to Leipzig. The Bundesliga outfit paid £20million to sign the 6ft 5in striker a year ago and he was already attracting interest elsewhere.
Sesko’s frame makes him tailor-made for the Premier League but he is not going anywhere - instead committing his immediate future to the Red Bulls. He told Nogomania: "I thought it through very well. I believe I made the right decision. I wanted to gain experience, learn more, and not rush things.
"Leipzig is an excellent club that can provide what I need for the next step. Leipzig's vision is clear; everything is geared towards growth, progress, and high goals. I felt it was right to decide this way."
Newcastle must look elsewhere if they are to sign a new No.9 this summer. While Alexander Isak is the undisputed first choice at St James’ Park, his backup, Callum Wilson, has suffered several long-term injuries.
Isak has also picked up several knocks since joining for a club-record £63million two years ago. Centre-back and a right-sided attacker remain the priority but the Magpies could also look to bolster their attacking options.
Arsenal were another Premier League club linked with Sesko as they aim to ignite another title charge. However, the Gunners must also shop elsewhere as the Slovenian will stay at Leipzig to further his development.