RB Leipzig are closely monitoring their summer transfers, aiming to maintain squad strength as the new season approaches, according to recent reports. Benjamin Sesko is increasingly likely to depart from the Bundesliga club in the coming weeks. The 22-year-old striker missed Leipzig’s pre-season friendly against Atalanta, with expectations that a move will be concluded by the end of the month.
Following Arsenal’s decision to purchase Viktor Gyokeres instead, Manchester United and Newcastle are now the front-runners for Sesko’s services. Although there is speculated interest in Rasmus Hojlund’s departure, he has officially stated his want to stay and compete for his position, and Ruben Amorim’s club is eager to get a new No. 9.
No final decision has been reached regarding Sesko’s next team, but reports suggest that Newcastle are prepared to meet Leipzig’s asking price. Meanwhile, United continues to engage actively with the German club regarding the striker.
However, Benjamin Sesko isn’t the only player from Leipzig linked to outbound moves. Xavi Simons has garnered interest from Chelsea, and newly-promoted Sunderland is said to have included Lois Openda in their transfer targets.
Florian Plettenberg mentioned Sunderland’s interest in Openda on X but also emphasized Leipzig’s reluctance to let go of too many key players.
Although initial reports of Sunderland being linked with Openda have been dismissed by Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, the situation has sparked discussion about Leipzig’s strategy concerning player departures.
Despite the potential financial windfall—estimated at over £100 million from the sales of Benjamin Sesko and Simons—Leipzig is cautious of a significant exodus that could deplete their attacking options.
The club’s position may have implications for the timing of any final agreements, particularly from United’s perspective, as they might look to hasten negotiations amidst the increasing uncertainty.
Sesko’s transfer fee could exceed £70 million after Newcastle reportedly made an initial bid on Saturday, as per ChronicleLive and other sources. Earlier this summer, Sesko’s agent indicated that the striker’s next move would hinge on finding “a special project with a special coach.” At this point, it seems that the decision will boil down to which club, whether United or Newcastle, can best present their vision to the 41-cap Slovenia international.
