Benjamin Sesko claims signing a new deal at RB Leipzig was “the logical next step for me” after snubbing interest from the likes of Arsenal.
The Gunners are in the market for a striker as they seek to add more firepower to their attack. Sesko was identified as a target and was thought to be keen on a switch to the Emirates having knocked back Manchester United’s advances 12 months ago.
The 21-year-old Slovenian scored 18 times in his debut season in the Bundesliga, admitting to a slow start, but has fully backed the environment at the German club as he seeks to give back having felt huge support from those around him.
He said after signing a new deal: “I had a good first year at RB Leipzig and am incredibly happy to be here. Team, club, city, fans – the overall package is simply outstanding for me. The early contract extension was therefore the logical next 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 perform to my full potential. In the second half of the season in particular, I was able to give something back with my goals.
“We have a team with great potential and a balanced mix of young and experienced players. I’m really looking forward to taking the next steps with this team. We’ve already achieved a lot in my first season and often shown what quality and outstanding football we can bring to the pitch. But there’s still a lot more to be done and that’s now our common goal.”
Arsenal were understood to be willing to trigger the player’s £55million release clause before he signed a new contract. The latest deal for Sesko is thought to include a gentleman’s agreement that will help him achieve an exit in the future. The player, who will compete at Euro 2024, wanted his next move finalised before the tournament.
Arsenal will now have to go back to the drawing board and Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee could be the next man they pursue, although interest is high. The Dutch forward has a €40m release clause and scored 11 goals to help the Italian club qualify for next season’s Champions League.
Newcastle ’s Alexander Isak and Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres were both on the Emirates shortlist but they’ve opted against going after them due to the massive fees it would take to land them. Any move for Brentford’s Ivan Toney looks unlikely at this stage.
