‘My understanding’: Journo delivers ‘very positive’ verdict on United’s pursuit of ‘special’ target

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·1. August 2025

‘My understanding’: Journo delivers ‘very positive’ verdict on United’s pursuit of ‘special’ target

Manchester United are waiting to receive the green light from Benjamin Sesko that he wants to make the move to Old Trafford, after which they’ll submit their opening proposal to RB Leipzig.

The Red Devils have upped the ante in their pursuit of Sesko this week amid stern interest from Newcastle United, with the latter making it clear to Leipzig they’ll pay whatever it takes to land the frontman this summer.

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Yet, a lucrative proposal and the prospect of playing Champions League football next season aren’t the be-all and end-all for the Slovenian, as reports suggest he is leaning towards a switch to the 20-time champions over Newcastle.

Why United have decided to go all-out for Benjamin Sesko

Sesko has to choose between United or the Magpies. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Indeed, the chance to join Ruben Amorim’s ranks ahead of the manager’s first full season and play an integral role in the next rebuild taking place is M16 carries a lot of appeal for Sesko.

United are taking somewhat of a risk with the prospective coup, though, given they have prioritised his arrival over alternative target Ollie Watkins, who boasts a wealth of Premier League experience and a proven track record of finding the back of the net relatively consistently.

It’s been revealed in recent days that Watkins is actually Amorim’s personal first-choice to lead the line next season, whereas the club’s interest in Sesko is being spearheaded by Director of Recruitment Christopher Vivell.

The former Red Bull chief is well acquainted with the 22-year-old due to his connections with his former side Salzburg and Leipzig. In fact, he almost single-handedly scouted the young starlet for Salzburg back when he was just 16 years old.

Vivell previously said of the striker: “Sesko is among the game’s top young talents and has enormous potential to become a top player. He has all the qualities to do that.

“He’s extremely quick, has a great jump on him and is strong in the air. Benjamin is a real goalscorer, who despite his 1.95m (6’4”) is mobile and technically strong. His abilities make him a special player with a special profile.”

Sesko to United: The state of play

Whether United will turn to Watkins if they fail to seal a deal for Sesko remains to be seen, although Aston Villa are said to be highly reluctant to part ways with their free-scoring talisman.

In the meantime, United are optimistic that they can reign victorious in the race for the sought-after talent.

Ben Jacobs spoke on the matter on Thursday, telling The United Stand: “My understanding from a Manchester United POV is very positive – I would turn Manchester United the favourites for Sesko, simply because the player at the moment prefers Man United to Newcastle even without UCL football.”