Manchester United and Newcastle United target Benjamin Sesko has been left out of RB Leipzig's squad for Saturday's friendly against Atalanta, fuelling speculation over his future. The 22-year-old Slovenia international has been the subject of intense transfer interest, with Newcastle reportedly submitting a bid worth up to £69.7 million.
Sky Germany reports that Sesko's omission is to avoid jeopardising a potential transfer. Xavi Simons, who is close to joining Chelsea, has also been left out. The striker is said to have already said goodbye to his teammates, though his eventual destination remains uncertain.
Newcastle accelerated talks with Leipzig after rejecting a £110 million bid from Liverpool for Alexander Isak on Friday. Manager Eddie Howe confirmed the bid was turned down before he even heard about it, adding that the situation regarding Isak is 'far from ideal'. Isak did not travel for Newcastle's pre-season tour due to a minor thigh injury, and Howe admitted he learned of the player training with former club Real Sociedad through the media.
Howe refused to comment on individual targets when asked about Sesko, but said: 'We are looking for the best players that we can get... it's quality over quantity.' The manager acknowledged a challenging summer after missing out on several targets, but insisted Newcastle remain competitive in the transfer market.
Sesko is described as a physical and speedy striker with clinical finishing, though his link-up play and passing are areas for improvement. German football expert Rune Gjerulff noted that his mentality and willingness to learn are strengths that could help him develop quickly.
