RB Leipzig have made a decisive move regarding Benjamin Sesko’s future by leaving the striker out of their squad for Saturday’s friendly against Atalanta, signalling that the Slovenian may be on the verge of a big-money transfer.
Sesko has been the subject of intense transfer speculation in recent weeks, with both Manchester United and Newcastle United vying for his signature. The forward, who impressed in the Bundesliga last season, is seen as one of Europe’s most promising young attackers, and his omission from the friendly squad is being interpreted as confirmation that he is on the market.
Reports indicate that Newcastle have submitted a formal offer worth €75 million, with an additional €5 million in performance-related add-ons, a bid that matches Leipzig’s valuation of the player. This has placed pressure on Manchester United, who are reportedly the player’s preferred destination despite not having European football next season.
United, while not yet having submitted a bid, sent a delegation to Germany earlier this week to gather details on the terms of the deal. However, the club is believed to be struggling to meet the financial demands required to secure the transfer.
Sesko, just 22, has made it clear that he is open to a Premier League move, and the latest developments suggest a resolution is imminent. Leipzig’s decision to exclude him from matchday involvement further strengthens the notion that negotiations are at an advanced stage, and the club is now preparing for life without the striker.
Elsewhere, Atalanta’s exclusion of Nigerian winger Ademola Lookman from their squad for the same friendly match has also raised eyebrows. The winger is attracting interest from Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid, with speculation mounting that a move could be in the works before the window closes.
With the transfer window nearing its final weeks, clubs are now making clear decisions about player futures. For Leipzig, benching Sesko may be the first formal signal that his Bundesliga chapter is closing, and a new one is about to begin in the Premier League. All eyes are now on Manchester United and Newcastle to see who will win the race for his signature.
