Ange Postecoglou has suggested it was a ‘smart’ decision from Benjamin Sesko not to join Tottenham’s rivals Arsenal this summer.
The RB Leipzig forward was Arsenal’s top target, and his £55million release clause was deemed a good price. While Arsenal were understood to have been ready to trigger his release clause, Sesko agreed to a new contract on improved terms with the German outfit prior to the Euros.
After signing a new deal at Leipzig, 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.”
Mikel Arteta and Co were dealt a blow, and the search for a new striker continues. The Gunners have since been linked with a number of other attacking options, including Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, Joshua Zirkzee and Victor Osimhen.
However, those alternatives may come with a higher fee, with Napoli demanding a £100m fee for Osimhen and Sporting valuing Gyokeres at upwards of £85m.
Sesko’s decision to remain in Germany is something that Postecoglou described as a ‘smart move’ as he continues to develop as a player. While on punditry duty on ITV, Postecoglou was asked about Sesko ahead of England’s final group match with Slovenia.
He said: “I think a big club would have looked at him this year, and it’s a smart move for him to stay there for another year. I think there’s still some development in him, but really good attributes for a striker position, for sure.”
Presenter Mark Pougatch then asked: “Is that the Tottenham manager saying it’s a smart move not to go to Arsenal?”
Postecoglou replied: “No comment,” to which Gary Neville, Ian Wright and Roy Keane, who were on pundit duty alongside the Tottenham boss, all burst out laughing.
