Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images
In a surprising twist, Real Madrid have received an unexpected call from Jurgen Klopp, who now serves as the Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull.
According to a recent report by Real Madrid Confidencial, Klopp has personally offered RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko to the Spanish giants, just as Los Blancos begin their search for a new number 9.
Real Madrid are actively exploring attacking reinforcements this summer, with the aim of finding a striker who complements their star trio of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Jude Bellingham.
The idea is to bring in a forward who not only adds depth but also offers tactical flexibility, something Carlo Ancelotti’s side was missing at times last season.
Sesko – an unexpected yet attractive option
For far, names such as Ante Budimir and Roberto Firmino have been loosely linked, but the emergence of Benjamin Sesko as an option is gaining attention for multiple reasons.
The 22-year-old Slovenian striker, who signed a contract extension at RB Leipzig last year, is not only physically dominant but also technically gifted.
Jurgen Klopp has suggested Benjamin Sesko to Real Madrid. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
He is known for his aerial presence, sharp movement in the box, and the ability to play with his back to goal, qualities that would provide Real Madrid with a different dimension up front.
Sesko has also been on the radar of Barcelona, which adds an intriguing twist to the situation. Juni Calafat, Real Madrid’s chief scout, had already tracked Sesko in the past, so the club is not unfamiliar with his profile.
What makes this story all the more surprising is the direct involvement of Klopp, who is now part of the Red Bull structure overseeing clubs like Leipzig and Salzburg.
His call to Real Madrid signals a willingness from the Red Bull group to negotiate, potentially opening the door for a big move.
However, there is one major hurdle, which is Sesko’s price tag. Despite his fit within Alonso’s future plans and Real Madrid’s style of play, the financial aspect remains complicated.
Leipzig are known for being tough negotiators, and the striker certainly won’t come cheap.
Sources: Three players that Xabi Alonso wants Real Madrid to sell this summer
According to a recent update from Fichajes, new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has already begun to shape the squad in his image, and his first moves are nothing short of bold.
Just days into the job, the former midfielder has reportedly decided to discard three notable players, namely Fran Garcia, David Alaba and Aurelien Tchouameni.
The decision has sparked discussion across the fanbase, given that all three players have featured prominently at various points for Los Blancos.
But Alonso, who is determined to implement his style, appears ready to part ways with them as he prepares for a new era at the club.
Not in Alonso’s vision
Garcia, once seen as a long-term option at left-back, has not entirely convinced since his return to the Bernabeu.
Despite being a promising name from Real Madrid’s youth system, Alonso reportedly feels the 25-year-old does not offer the consistency or tactical fit needed for his system.
Fran Garcia could leave Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)
Alaba, once a pillar in defence, has battled persistent injury issues. While his leadership and versatility have been invaluable, Alonso seems unwilling to gamble on a player who has struggled to maintain full fitness.
In Tchouameni’s case, his inconsistent form last season may have played a significant role in Alonso’s thinking.
Despite his initial promise, the French midfielder failed to maintain the level expected at Madrid. With the club well-stocked in midfield, Alonso may see him as expendable in his rebuild.
For now, what is clear is that Alonso is not wasting any time. He is said to have a clear tactical vision and wants players who fully match the demands of his system.
These early exits would not only free up space in the squad but also open up room in the wage bill, essential for Real Madrid’s plans to strengthen other areas.