Benjamin Sesko’s variable RB Leipzig release clause has now cracked the €80 million mark, according to German media.
The Slovenia international continues to make headlines as he remains one of Europe’s most sought-after commodities despite having a mixed season.
It was a goal that showed why he is in demand and regarded as one of the most promising young strikers in world football. Arsenal, Chelsea and Man Utd have all been courting him over the past year, and on Monday, it was claimed that the Blues had officially opened talks with him.
After deciding to stay at Leipzig last summer, the 21-year-old is expected to take the next step in his career in the upcoming window, and the Premier League is his most likely destination. This is not just due to its status as the best division in world football, but also due to Sesko’s price.
Sesko becoming more and more expensive
Sesko signed a new Leipzig contract last summer, but he retained an improved version of the variable release clause from his previous deal. After a red-hot end to the 2023/24 season, his price rose from €50m to €65m last year.
This figure has increased even further over the course of the current season. In early March, his clause stood at around €70m. Now,Sky Germany reports that Sesko’s valuation has exceeded the €80m mark.
Previously, it was thought that €80m was as high as the clause could go, but it seems that this is not the case. This means that, financially, Sesko is already out of reach for all but a select few clubs.
Reporter Philipp Hinze states that Leipzig are flexible when it comes to payment terms and the structure of a potential deal. While he did not disclose the exact price tag, he did posit a fee in the region of €90m should suitors seek to open formal talks instead of triggering the clause.
Despite Sesko’s obvious potential, this seems to be an excessive fee. Arsenal will surely feel that Viktor Gyokeres, who is five years Sesko’s senior, represents better value for money at €60m-€70m and potentially a more reliable source of goals.
Man Utd, meanwhile, will struggle to muster that kind of sum this summer, potentially leaving Chelsea as Sesko’s only credible option.
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