Chelsea threaten Arsenal with 'concrete move' for Osimhen alternative

Tom Weber

Updated: 26 Apr 2024 11:24 BST
4 min read

Mauricio Pochettino, Mikel Arteta, WTF — © IMAGO

Chelsea have made a 'concrete' approach to recruit Benjamin Sesko, according to German media.

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The RB Leipzig striker is regarded as one of the biggest offensive talents in European football and it is only natural that he has attracted the attention of big-name clubs. Even before he joined Leipzig last summer, Sesko was being heavily courted by clubs such as Man Utd and AC Milan.

With a more-than-respectable haul of 14 goals thus far in his first season for the Red Bulls, the interest in Sesko has not subsided. On the contrary, it has only increased and speculation surrounding his future is once again rampant.

Arsenal and Chelsea are seemingly two of his keenest suitors and FootballTransfers understands that Newcastle also admire him. However, the Magpies will only dip into the striker market this summer if Callum Wilson succeeds in forcing a transfer away from the club.

Leipzig had to agree to a €50 million release clause in Sesko's contract just to be able to beat the competition to his signature last summer and this means that the 20-year-old is relatively affordable this year.

Chelsea make contact

Indeed, it is thought that Sesko is one of the biggest names at Leipzig who could depart this season. However, the Bundesliga side are keen to convince the youngster that remaining at the club for at least one more season is what is best for his development.

According to BILD, the consensus at Leipzig is that Bayern are a wounded animal and will have a similarly disappointing season to the current one next term. The Red Bulls want to capitalise on this by attempting a title charge, but to do this, they will need to keep hold of their key performers.

Sesko is seen as a vital member of the squad, but his release clause means that it is ultimately up to the player. The above-mentioned report claims that Chelsea have already made a concrete enquiry for him. It seems the Blues view Sesko as a more affordable alternative to €130m Napoli sharpshooter Victor Osimhen.