Benjamin Sesko snubbed a transfer to Arsenal because he didn’t want to be second choice behind Kai Havertz, according to reports.
Sesko, one of the most-wanted young forwards in the world at the moment, was linked with an exit from RB Leipzig – and a Premier League switch – last summer.
Arsenal, along with Manchester United and Chelsea, were strongly interested in Sesko but he later decided he wanted to spend one more season in Germany.
Sesko, who is expected to move on at the end of the current season, was reluctant to join Arsenal last summer amid concerns he wouldn’t play instead of Havertz.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who report that Arsenal told Sesko directly he would not be guaranteed to play ahead of Havertz at this stage of his career.
Arsenal still retain an interest in signing Sesko, though, and will likely attempt to sign him again at the end of the season after he ‘seriously considered’ the Gunners last summer.
But the north London club are not alone in their quest to land Sesko with United also back in the race to secure the 21-year-old Slovenia international’s signature.
Sesko has been in fine form for Leipzig this season, producing seven goals across 14 games.
Speaking about his decision to snub a Premier League switch last summer, Sesko said: ‘I had a good first year at RB Leipzig and am incredibly happy to be here.
‘Team, club, city, fans – the overall package is simply outstanding for me. The early contract extension was therefore the logical next step for me.
‘I feel a lot of trust and appreciation throughout the club and that is crucial for being able to perform to my full potential. In the second half of the season in particular, I was able to give something back with my goals.
‘We have a team with great potential and a balanced mix of young and experienced players. I’m really looking forward to taking the next steps with this team.’
Sesko scored in Leipzig’s last Bundesliga match as they lost 2-1 to Borussia Dortmund at the Westfalenstadion.
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