Al-Hilal are reportedly interested in signing Benjamin Sesko this summer, but RB Leipzig’s current asking price of €90 million is blocking a potential move.
The Slovenia international has been linked with a big-money transfer for several months, and Al-Hilal have emerged as strong contenders to land his signature after Arsenal withdrew from the race to sign him.
Sesko was Mikel Arteta’s top centre forward target, however Arsenal were unable to negotiate a lower transfer fee with Leipzig and they quickly turned their attention to finalising a deal for Sporting CP superstar Viktor Gyokeres.
The Gunners now appear to be on the verge of reaching an agreement to bring Gyokeres to the Emirates Stadium this summer and they have “distanced themselves” from Sesko.
That is according to TEAMtalk, who claim that Sesko is being pursued by Al-Hilal and two unnamed Serie A clubs.
However, an official offer has not yet been tabled as Leipzig are reportedly demanding a fee of €90m in order to sanction a sale. This is seen as a major obstacle and Sesko is set to remain with the Bundesliga side unless a “very big offer” is submitted.
The 22-year-old is also eager to remain in Europe, as per TEAMtalk, meaning Al-Hilal are unlikely to finalise a deal for his signature unless Sesko opts to relax his stance on moving to Saudi Arabia.
What has Benjamin Sesko said?
In May, amid significant rumours of a summer transfer, Sesko revealed that he would be happy to remain at Leipzig for another season.
Speaking to German outlet Sport1, he admitted: “The club has given me a lot and continues to give me a lot every day. It’s a great club to develop at.
“[I want to] play for a club that suits me, that brings out the best in me. That’s the most important thing for me.
“I’m currently a player for RB Leipzig, so I’m taking it day by day. If a transfer happens, and if it doesn’t, then it doesn’t.”
