Chelsea have reportedly held meetings with Red Bull Salzburg’s highly-rated centre-forward Benjamin Sesko, who is also on Manchester United’s radar.
According to a report by Slovenian outlet Sport Klub, Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has held talks with highly-rated Red Bull Salzburg striker Benjamin Sesko’s entourage over a possible move in the summer transfer window. Manchester United have also shown interest in the 19-year-old forward, who has been compared with former Salzburg striker Erling Haaland.
As per Sport Klub, Chelsea owner and also their sporting director, Todd Boehly met with Benjamin Sesko’s agent Elvis Basanovic on Sunday, July 31, to discuss a possible move to Stamford Bridge for the young Slovenian attacker.
Sesko has shot to fame with his recent performances for the Austrian club. The teenage sensation scored ten goals for Red Bull Salzburg last season and has started the new campaign in fine fashion. He has scored two goals in three competitive matches thus far this season and was also on the score sheet in a recent friendly against Liverpool.
Manchester United emerged as among the first clubs to enquire about the possibility of signing Sesko, who still has four years left with Red Bull Salzburg. The Red Devils held talks with the Austrian club and are reportedly readying their official offer for the forward.
However, Chelsea could spoil their pursuit as the west London club are themselves on the lookout for a number nine. The Blues saw Romelu Lukaku return to Inter Milan on loan this summer, and Timo Werner could also leave before the ongoing transfer window slams shut, leaving them short-staffed in the striking department.
On the other hand, Manchester United have seen Edinson Cavani leave as a free agent this summer, while there is still a question mark over Cristiano Ronaldo’s future at the club. The Red Devils are eager to sign a new striker ahead of the upcoming season to avoid any last-minute drama should the Portuguese international find a potential suitor.
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Red Bull Salzburg’s stance in all of this is that they will not sell Sesko, but there have been reports that a significant bid could convince them to part ways with the striker. It will be interesting to see if Chelsea or Manchester United can tempt the Austrian giants, especially following the recent round of meetings and talks.