Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester United are both reportedly interested in signing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko in the upcoming January transfer window. However, the Bundesliga club is unlikely to part ways with the 21-year-old prospect before the summer, as he recently signed a contract extension and has a release clause in his contract that could be triggered in 2025. The Gunners will also have a better understanding of the player's transfer preference, having targeted him in the summer.
Manchester United and Arsenal Eye RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko
Premier League giants Arsenal and Manchester United have reportedly set their sights on signing highly-rated RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko during the upcoming January transfer window.
Background
Sesko, 21, is a Slovenian international who has emerged as one of the most promising strikers in Europe. He joined Leipzig from Austrian club Red Bull Salzburg in the summer of 2021 and has since established himself as a regular in the Bundesliga.
In the 2022/23 season, Sesko has contributed seven goals and two assists in 15 league appearances. His impressive displays have caught the attention of several top clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United.
Transfer Situation
However, Leipzig are reluctant to sell Sesko during the January transfer window. The Bundesliga club recently extended his contract until 2026, which includes a release clause that can be triggered in 2025. Leipzig are hopeful that Sesko will continue to develop with them for the next two seasons.
Both Arsenal and Manchester United will therefore have to wait until the summer of 2025 to pursue a move for Sesko unless they are willing to meet his release clause, which is reportedly set at €60 million.
Gunners' Advantage
Arsenal may have an advantage in the race to sign Sesko, as they reportedly targeted him in the summer transfer window. The Gunners have a good relationship with Red Bull Salzburg, where Sesko previously played, and could use that connection to convince him to move to the Emirates Stadium.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why are Arsenal and Manchester United interested in Sesko?
Both clubs are in need of a young and talented striker to bolster their attacking options. Sesko is considered one of the best prospects in his position and has a bright future ahead of him.
2. Will Sesko leave Leipzig in January?
It is unlikely that Sesko will leave Leipzig during the January transfer window. The club has recently extended his contract and is reluctant to part ways with him before the summer.
3. When can Arsenal and Manchester United sign Sesko?
Both clubs will have to wait until the summer of 2025 to pursue a move for Sesko unless they are willing to meet his release clause.
4. How much is Sesko's release clause?
Sesko's release clause is reportedly set at €60 million.
5. What is Sesko's preferred destination?
Sesko is reportedly interested in playing in the Premier League. Arsenal and Manchester United are both attractive options for him, but he may also consider other clubs who are interested in signing him.
Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso praised forward Gonzalo García for his performance in their 3-2 victory against Borussia Dortmund in the quarterfinal of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup tournament. García, who has four goals in five matches, tied for the top scorer spot with Ángel Di María, Marcos Leonardo, and Serhou Guirassy. Now, with the other three eliminated, García has a chance to definitively hold the title of the tournament's Golden Boot winner.
England's defence of their European Championship title got off to a rough start with a 2-1 defeat to France in their opening match. Despite talk of a "new England" under coach Sarina Wiegman, the team struggled to find momentum and were punished for their lethargy. With a must-win game against the Netherlands looming, the Lionesses will need to shake off their slow start and live up to their predecessors' success.
In a thrilling match, PSG beat Bayern Munich to secure their spot in the semifinals of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The game was tightly contested in the first half, but things took a turn when Bayern's Jamal Musiala collided with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite the tension, PSG managed to score two goals in the second half, securing their win and advancing to the next round. However, there was controversy as one Bayern player criticized Donnarumma for the collision after the game.
In a thrilling Club World Cup quarterfinal match, Real Madrid claimed a 3-2 victory over Borussia Dortmund thanks to a late goal from Kylian Mbappe. The French forward, who is coming back from a bout of gastroenteritis, scored a stunning bicycle kick in the final minutes to secure the win for Madrid. The match was full of drama, with a missed penalty, a red card, and a last-minute save from Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois. Madrid will now face Paris Saint-Germain in the semifinals.
With the summer transfer window in full swing, Manchester United is making moves to strengthen their team. They have recently announced the signing of Diego Leon and are now locked in battle for Moise Keane with Napoli and Al-Qadsiah. Additionally, the team is looking to bring in Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins and are increasing their pursuit of Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo. However, the Bees have warned that Mbeumo will not be leaving unless United meets their valuation. Stay up to date with all of the latest updates on Old Trafford's moves in the Club World Cup on DAZN.
Real Madrid's superstar forward Kylian Mbappe may not be able to play in the team's quarter-final match against Borussia Dortmund. Mbappe has been dealing with gastroenteritis, an infection in the gut, and coach Xabi Alonso says a decision will be made tomorrow on his availability for the game. In the meantime, 21-year-old academy product Gonzalo Garcia has stepped up in Mbappe's absence, delivering impressive performances in the tournament.
In a tense match between Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern's Musiala suffered a serious injury after a collision with PSG goalkeeper Donnarumma. Despite a valiant effort from Bayern, goals from Doue and Dembele secured PSG's spot in the Club World Cup semi-finals. The match was also marred by multiple incidents, including two red cards for PSG players.
In an interview after Real Madrid's victory against Pachuca at the Club World Cup, defender Fran García expressed his relief and confidence in the team's progress. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the positives and continuing to work hard towards their goals. Viewers can watch highlights from the match on RM Play.
In a thrilling Group D match at Euro 2025 in Zurich, Sandy Baltimore scored her second goal to give France a commanding 2-0 lead against England. The English team was left rattled as Baltimore's brilliant strike left them with an uphill battle. Despite a valiant effort from England, France ultimately secured the victory. As the tournament continues, BBC Sport will provide extensive coverage, so make sure to follow along for all the action.
Bayern Munich faced a devastating loss in the Club World Cup, but the biggest talking point came when their star, Jamal Musiala, suffered a horrific injury due to a collision with PSG goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite a late red card for PSG, Luis Enrique's side secured a spot in the semi-finals of the competition. Musiala is believed to have sustained a fractured tibia and fibula as a result of the incident.