Where was Benjamin Sesko? He was a ghost on the pitch as RB Leipzig stumbled in a friendly against Atalanta. Head coach Marcel Schafer didn't mince words, declaring the reason for his absence "obvious."
Manchester United fans dreaming of a marquee striker signing this summer can breathe a little easier. Contrary to popular belief, funding a blockbuster deal doesn't necessarily hinge on offloading players deemed surplus to requirements - the so-called 'bomb squad'.
A clever combination of factors is opening up financial possibilities for Erik ten Hag. Primarily, the club's recent financial performance has been stronger than anticipated, boosting available funds. Furthermore, a shift in Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations allows for greater amortization of player contracts, meaning United can spread the cost of a new signing over a longer period.
This doesn't mean spending will be unlimited, but it significantly eases the pressure to generate revenue through sales. While departures would still be welcomed to streamline the squad, they are no longer a *requirement* to bring in a top-tier goalscorer. Expect United to explore options like Victor Osimhen and Harry Kane with renewed confidence, focusing on structuring a deal that fits within their evolving financial landscape. This is a game-changer for Ten Hag's rebuild!
Chelsea's hopes of landing Xavi Simons have received a lift, as the Dutch midfielder was surprisingly omitted from RB Leipzig's squad for a recent friendly. This comes as Newcastle United also saw a potential avenue open up, with star striker Benjamin Sesko also absent from the Leipzig lineup - just hours after the Magpies launched a £70m bid. The omissions fuel speculation that both players could be on the move before the transfer window closes, potentially sparking a bidding war for the talented duo
Xavi Simons has removed RB Leipzig from his bio on Instagram as the 22-year-old hopes to complete a move to Chelsea this summer.
Armando Broja is reportedly on the verge of sealing a permanent transfer to Burnley after the Clarets reached an agreement with Chelsea. The 22-year-old forward has endured a difficult few years, beginning with an Achilles tendon rupture that sidelined him for a lengthy spell. Unfortunately, further misfortune followed when he sustained a significant ankle injury shortly after returning to action.
Inter Milan have reportedly had another bid for Atalanta star Ademola Lookman rejected after their opening offer of €40 million was rebuffed.
Alejandro Garnacho has reportedly set his sights on a move to Chelsea this summer as the exiled Manchester United winger seeks a fresh start.
Newcastle United have reportedly named their price for Alexander Isak after rejecting Liverpool’s opening offer, with the Magpies demanding £150 million to consider a deal. The Swedish striker is pushing to leave this summer and has been training at former club Real Sociedad. Meanwhile, Newcastle are eyeing Ollie Watkins as a possible replacement if Isak departs.
Manchester United are gearing up to unveil their ambitious long-term striker vision to Benjamin Sesko, as they craft a blockbuster formal offer for the RB Leipzig sensation. The Red Devils are on a mission to show the Slovenian star that he's their undisputed top priority this summer, fending off fierce competition from Newcastle. With the clock ticking, Sesko is poised to make his game-changing decision in the coming days-will it be the Red Devils or the Magpies?
