Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd learn bargain release clause of No.9 target

Tom Weber

• Updated: 19 Jan 2024 20:46 GMT
• 3 min read

Benjamin Sesko will be available in the summer for just €50 million, according to German media.

One of Europe's most sought-after number-nine prospects, Benjamin Sesko looks to be on the RB Leipzig exit ramp just six months after joining. Though he likely won't depart in January, he certainly could in the summer - and he will have no shortage of suitors.

The Slovenian arrived at RB Leipzig from sister club Salzburg with the reputation of being something of an Erling Haaland clone, yet the 20-year-old has found game time in Saxony had to come by, mostly being used as a substitute by Marco Rose.

In his 23 outings, most of which have come off the bench, he has nevertheless notched an impressive seven goals, illustrating the bags of potential he has despite being outshone by Lois Openda, the Red Bulls' record signing.

According to Sky Germany, Sesko will be available for €50 million in the summer due to a release clause in his Leipzig contract. It is asserted that inserting this clause was key to his signing for the Red Bulls, so Sesko has always viewed the Bundesliga side as a stepping stone.

Premier League interest

The news of his release clause will be music to the ears of his big-name suitors, Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea. Though €50m may seem a hefty fee for a player who is not a starter, it could prove to be a bargain if he fulfils his potential.

The Red Devils have been his most persistent suitors, having tried to strike a deal for the Slovenian over the past two summers with little success. Man Utd remain in the market for a number nine despite splashing €74m on Rasmus Hojlund in the previous transfer window.

The same can be said of Chelsea and Arsenal, both of whom have been heavily linked with big-name forwards in recent weeks. Indeed, FootballTransfers exclusively revealed back in November that the Gunners were considering making a move for Sesko in January.