Manchester United have won the race for Benjamin Sesko, signing the Slovenian striker from RB Leipzig in a deal worth up to £73.7 million.
The move comes after United beat out Premier League rivals Newcastle, who had two bids for the striker rejected by Leipzig this week. Sesko, 22, has signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with the deal structured as an initial £66.26 million fee plus performance-based bonuses.
In his first interview with the club, Sesko said the move felt right from the start.
“When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon,” he said. He added that the club’s energy and “family environment” helped him make the decision.
Manchester United were reportedly satisfied with the fee, which is lower than Newcastle’s second bid of £69.7 million plus add-ons. The club avoided a bidding war, with Leipzig preferring United’s offer.
Newcastle’s failed pursuit of Sesko could have implications for Alexander Isak. The Magpies are said to be open to selling the Swedish striker only if a suitable replacement is found. Liverpool, who had a £110 million plus add-ons bid rejected for Isak earlier this week, may now face fewer transfer options.
Sesko’s arrival at United also puts the spotlight on Rasmus Hojlund. According to transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano, AC Milan have shown interest in signing the Danish striker on loan. United are seeking around €6 million as a loan fee with full salary coverage. BBC Sport reports Milan are prepared to offer €4 million (£3.47 million) with an option to buy for €40 million (£34.7 million) next summer.
Sesko’s career began at FC Liefering in Austria’s second division, where he scored 22 goals in 44 matches. He later netted 29 goals in 79 games for RB Salzburg, including 21 goals in 55 Austrian Bundesliga appearances.
Since arriving at Leipzig, Sesko has been nothing short of a revelation, finding the back of the net 39 times in his 87 appearances. His consistency is just as impressive: he hit the ground running with 18 goals in his first full season, then followed it up with an even better 21 in his second.
And in the tough German league, he’s proven to be a real force, bagging 27 goals in 64 games and even chipping in with seven assists to prove he’s a team player.
For Manchester United, the signing adds depth to their attack but raises the question: how will Erik ten Hag balance the minutes between Sesko, Hojlund, and the club’s other forwards in the coming season?
