Manchester United have been handed a major boost in their pursuit of highly-rated striker Benjamin Sesko, with the player reportedly making a clear decision on his preferred destination amid rival interest from Newcastle United.
United submitted an official bid on Tuesday, totalling €85 million, as they looked to accelerate talks with RB Leipzig. The offer is slightly lower than the €90 million bid Newcastle lodged a day earlier, but United remain optimistic, buoyed by signals from the player’s camp that he favours a move to Old Trafford.
The confidence within the United camp has grown following direct assurances that Sesko has his sights set on wearing the red jersey, a factor believed to have influenced their decision to proceed with their offer. Despite Newcastle’s improved financial terms and stronger bid on paper, the personal preference of the player could be the deciding factor.
United are now focused on finalising an agreement with Leipzig. Having already agreed personal terms with the 22-year-old Slovenian forward, the Premier League giants are working hard to ensure that the Bundesliga club is convinced to sell.
Sesko’s preference for Manchester United signals a turning point in the club’s summer transfer strategy. With their pursuit of other attacking targets having fallen through and growing frustration over Rasmus Hojlund’s underwhelming output since his move from Atalanta, United have intensified efforts to land a more clinical and long-term striker.
Hojlund, who scored just four league goals last season, has struggled to justify his hefty price tag. In contrast, Sesko found the net 13 times in the Bundesliga last season and has shown signs of becoming a top-tier European striker.
Viewed as a future star, Sesko’s profile fits well with the vision of United’s manager, who sees him as a player with the physical attributes, finishing ability, and tactical intelligence to thrive in the Premier League. His age also makes him a long-term investment who can develop under the current project at Old Trafford.
While negotiations with Leipzig remain ongoing, all signs point to United edging closer to a significant transfer coup that could shape their frontline for years to come.
