Real Madrid have reportedly been asked to fork out €40 million if they are to acquire the services of RB Salzburg prodigy Benjamin Sesko.
According to Sky Sports, as relayed by Defensa Central, Red Bull Salzburg have slapped a €40 million price tag on Benjamin Sesko in an attempt to fend off suitors. The young forward is being courted by Real Madrid among many other top clubs across Europe, with many expecting the player to move on next summer.
Salzburg, though, are prepared to keep hold of Sesko for at least another season. As such, they have set a €40 million price tag on the youngster, who is starting to make his presence felt in the first-team, after coming back from a successful loan spell at FC Liefering last season.
A centre-forward by trade, Sesko has netted seven goals in 17 competitive matches so far this season, three of which have come in the Austrian Bundesliga. Although his numbers might not be particularly eye-catching, he is widely regarded as an ideal replacement for Patson Daka, who moved to Leicester City in the summer.
Standing at 1.94m, though, Sesko is often likened to a certain Erling Haaland. His massive frame, coupled with his aggression and goalscoring ability make him almost an identical twin to the Norwegian superstar, who is also a target for Real Madrid next summer.
However, Real Madrid are not the only club pursuing Sesko. Liverpool have been linked with a move for the teenage sensation in the past while Inter Milan have showcased their interest as well. It could make the task difficult for the Spanish giants, especially given the fact they are already expected to rope in attacking superstar Kylian Mbappe next summer.
At the same time, it was always unlikely that Real Madrid would want to meet Salzburg’s €40 million demands. They are in a bit of a financial rut and are thus focusing on largely signing free agents as well as one or two star players like Haaland and Mbappe. Investing a large sum on a young attacker like Sesko could, therefore, be a bit practical.
Even Liverpool are unlikely to make a move for the Slovenian forward, as they clearly prefer the slightly more experienced players and the in-demand Karim Adeyemi. It appears the German international will also cost €40 million and it won’t be surprising to see the Reds pouncing on the opportunity to snap him up.