Benjamin Sesko explains RB Leipzig transfer as Chelsea and Manchester United target confirms Salzburg exit

Red Bull Salzburg have confirmed talented young forward Benjamin Sesko has agreed a deal to join RB Leipzig next summer.

The 19-year-old had been linked with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Newcastle United over the last few weeks after scoring 10 goals in 36 appearances last season in what was a breakthrough campaign with the Austrian side.

One of the most highly-rated young forwards in Europe, the Slovenian international has drawn comparison with Erling Haaland, who came to prominence with Salzburg himself before moving to Borussia Dortmund in 2020.

Touted as a potential target for a number of Premier League sides, Sesko will instead walk a well-trodden path from Salzburg to Leipzig but will remain with his current club for the remainder of this season.

A Salzburg statement read: “The rumours have swirled in recent weeks and months aroundBenjamin Sesko, who has been linked to several top clubs.

“The speculation can now end, however, with the 19-year-old’s future resolved.

“Benjamin Sesko is to play for us in the 2022/23 season before moving to RB Leipzig. Sesko is signing a five-year contract with the German side running from the 2023/24 season.”

Sesko, meanwhile, said: “I have read and heard so much about me in recent weeks, and a lot of it had no basis in reality.

“In order to end the speculation and fully concentrate on my tasks here at FC Red Bull Salzburg, it was important for me to arrange the next steps in my career already.

“I wanted to gain clarity as soon as possible on the way ahead.

“Absolutely nothing has changed for me personally otherwise, and I will still give everything for FC Red Bull Salzburg as we have a lot of plans this season.”