RB Leipzig has announced that they have agreed on a new long-term contract with attacker Benjamin Sesko.

Despite being confirmed to join Leipzig in July 2022, the 21-year-old’s future has been a topic of contention for years.

After leaving Red Bull Salzburg last summer, the Slovenian international moved to Germany, where he impressed in his first season.

Sesko scored 16 goals and assisted twice in 21 starts and 18 substitute appearances in the Bundesliga and Champions League.

Most notably, Sesko scored in seven consecutive games during the run-in, confirming the enormous interest in his signing.

Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester United have all been said to be fans of Sesko at a time when they are looking to improve their final-third options with a new centre-forward.

Benjamin Sesko pens new contract | RB Leipzig announces Slovenian forward’s contract extension

Sesko allegedly turned down Premier League offers earlier this week in order to advance in his current role.

On Wednesday morning, Leipzig formally confirmed that Sesko had “prematurely extended” his existing contract to the end of the 2028-29 season.

Although Sesko had clubs lined up to pay a release clause estimated to be worth £55.3 million, the player believes that sticking with Leipzig is “the logical next step”.

He told the club’s official website, “I had a great first year with RB Leipzig and am really glad to be here. Team, club, city, and fans – the entire package is absolutely excellent in my opinion. For me, an early contract extension was the logical next step.

“Even though I didn’t play or score as much in the first half of the season, this period was critical for me and my growth. I sense a lot of trust and appreciation around the club, which is essential for performing to my maximum capacity. With my goals, I was able to give back, especially in the second half of the season.

“We have a team with a lot of potential and a good combination of young and experienced players. I’m incredibly excited to take the next stages with this team.

“We’ve already accomplished a lot in my first season, demonstrating the level of quality and fantastic football we can bring to the game. But there is still a lot to be done, and that is now our shared goal.”