Key Bundesliga appointment could impact on Newcastle United transfer plans

German club RB Leipzig have confirmed the appointment of Max Eberl as their new sporting director in a move that could impact on Newcastle United’s transfer plans.

The Magpies were unsuccessful in their attempts to sign Leipzig-bound striker Benjamin Sesko after the RB Salzburg star agreed a deal to the Bundesliga club next summer.

However, United’s recruitment staff will keep a keen eye on his progress as he prepares to take on the likes of Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund in Germany’s elite next season.

Leipzig midfielder Amadou Haidara is also understood to have admirers with Newcastle’s recruitment team after the Mali international impressed during his three-year stay at the Red Bull Arena.

United staff have watched the Bundesliga side in action on a number of occasions over the last year - but they will have a new key figure to deal with if they opt to make a move over the coming transfer windows following the appointment of former Borussia Monchengladbach sporting director Eberl.

After confirmation of the deal was released, Leipzig CEO Oliver Mintlaff commented: “Max Eberl was always our primary candidate for the position of sporting director.

“We’ve been in talks for a while, but always with respect for his personal situation. We’re looking forward to starting work together in December.”

Eberl added: “I’m really happy to make my move to Leipzig public.

“I’m grateful I was given the time to recuperate. Now I’m feeling ready, with the strength to want to work in football again.

“I’m joining a club that’s made rapid progress in recent years, is very ambitious and has a clear footballing philosophy. There’s huge potential here - throughout the club and the whole region.”