Gary Neville has endorsed Benjamin Sesko's choice to snub Manchester United and continue his development at RB Leipzig. The 22-year-old sensation made waves in the Bundesliga during his maiden season of 2023/24, netting 18 goals across competitions.
Sesko's stellar form attracted attention from Premier League titans including Manchester United and Arsenal last summer. However, the Slovenian star decided to extend his stay in Germany, penning a new contract which keeps him tied down until 2029, despite rumours of a gentleman's agreement that could see him depart this summer for a reasonable fee. After his first season in the Bundesliga, Sesko showcased his talents at Euro 2024.
And it was during Slovenia's 1-1 stalemate with Denmark that Neville, on punditry duty for ITV, praised the young striker's attributes and supported his earlier decision to remain in the Bundesliga for his career progression. He said: "[He's got] goals, youth and physically.
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"I think we are moving back to having a big physical striker up front, the game seems to have flipped a little bit by having big defenders and big strikers. He is someone who has so much potential and you can see why Premier League clubs are interested.
"But I can also see why, what is being suggested, he is staying at Leipzig for another year. It will give him the chance to grow without the spotlight you get on you in the Premier League and just develop his game a little bit more."
While United suffered a lacklustre season under new boss Ruben Amorim, Sesko thrived in Leipzig, scoring 21 goals and providing six assists across all competitions. And additional experience as the main striker for a top-five European league club and in the Champions League could prove even more advantageous for United this term if they can secure him.
The towering 6'5" forward appeared on the verge of a move to Newcastle United following their £72million plus £2.1m offer, but his preference for joining Amorim's outfit became evident after they proposed £65m plus £8m, as reported by The Athletic. Sesko's determination to sign for United has been communicated to all parties engaged in the negotiations.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are left lamenting yet another unsuccessful transfer pursuit as they seek to bolster their attack, especially with Alexander Isak's future in doubt after Liverpool's initial bid of £110m plus add-ons was turned down.