Gary Neville theory explains why Benjamin Sesko snubbed Arsenal and Chelsea transfer

Gary Neville believes that Benjamin Sesko remaining in the Bundesliga will aid his development despite seemingly turning down Arsenal and Chelsea. The forward netted 18 goals for RB Leipzig last season and attracted attention from a host of clubs around Europe.

Premier League teams were among those vying for the Slovenian's signature with Manchester United rivalling the London outfits. Both the Gunners and the Blues were heavily linked with the 21-year-old as they looked to the powerful forward to strengthen their ranks.

Mikel Arteta's side have been mooted with an array of attacking talent this summer after finishing second in the Premier League. For the second consecutive season, the Spaniard tasted disappointment failing to usurp Manchester City from the summit as a result, the likes of Joshua Zirkzee, Ivan Toney and even Kylian Mbappe have been the subject of speculation over a move to the Emirates Stadium.

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However, interested parties were dealt a setback when Sesko penned an extension at Die Roten Bullen, putting transfer links on hold. He 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.

"Even though I didn't play or score as much in the first half of the season, this phase was very important for me and my development. I feel a lot of trust and appreciation throughout the club and that is crucial for being able to perform to my full potential. In the second half of the season in particular, I was able to give something back with my goals."

Neville feels that the interest in the forward is warranted as clubs opt for traditional number nine strikers, especially in the Premier League, but believes another year in Germany will be beneficial for the Slovenian.

"Goals, youth (why he's so impressive) physically I think we're moving back to having big striker up top - the game seems to have flipped to having big strikers," said the former United defender. "He's got so much potential, you can see why Premier League clubs (want him) and why he's staying at Leipzig for another year, to grow without the spotlight that you'd have in the Premier League and develop your game a little bit more."