Report: Arsenal and Man Utd Duel for Top Striker | OneFootball

Manchester United’s Transfer Strategy: Focused on the Future

United’s Long-Term Vision with Sesko

Manchester United’s aspirations to build a formidable squad for the 2025 season seem firmly focused on securing high-profile talent. In a detailed piece by GIVEMESPORT, Ben Jacobs reveals the club’s ongoing interest in RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. Despite the summer tug-of-war with Arsenal and Chelsea, United’s intent has not wavered. Jacobs notes, “Manchester United still retain hopes of signing RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko in the future, Ben Jacobs has exclusively told GIVEMESPORT.”

This statement underscores United’s commitment to a strategic overhaul, spearheaded by their new transfer executives, Dan Ashworth, Omar Berrada, and Jason Wilcox. Their approach is not just about immediate gains but aligning the club’s trajectory with long-term success.

Assessing Sesko’s Fit at Old Trafford

The 2025 vision for Manchester United includes making impactful signings that can redefine the team’s attacking capabilities. Sesko, with a “blistering pace” and described as having an “insane” ball-striking ability, fits the archetype United are eager to integrate. His performances in the Bundesliga have certainly made a compelling case. With 14 goals to his tally last season, his potential arrival could elevate United’s frontline, which currently features Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.

However, Jacobs highlights a possible snag in this plan, stating, “Whilst Arsenal remain the favourites to secure his signature, given that they were his top choice if he was to move in recent months, Sesko could still move and United are in the hunt – but they have work to do if they are to land their man.” This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of football transfers and the need for United to differentiate their pitch to prospective signings.

United’s Striking Options: A Delicate Balance

The addition of Sesko would necessitate a tactical reshuffle at United, especially considering the existing talents of Hojlund and Zirkzee. Jacobs insightfully points out, “It is hard to see where Zirkzee or Hojlund would fit in, with one of the pair likely to be demoted to third-choice striker if Sesko joins.” This scenario presents a challenge for United’s management to balance ambition with squad harmony.

Photo: IMAGO

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Benjamin Sesko’s Rising Profile

Unpacking Sesko’s Goal-Scoring Prowess

Benjamin Sesko’s last season performance solidifies his reputation as a forward to watch in European football. According to Fbref, his non-penalty goals per 90 minutes place him in the 88th percentile among forwards—a stellar achievement indicating his efficiency in front of goal. This figure, paired with his non-penalty expected goals (xG) of 0.43, which ranks in the 64th percentile, suggests not only a knack for finding the net but also being in the right positions to do so frequently.

Contributions Beyond Scoring?

While Sesko’s goal-scoring capabilities headline his attributes, his overall gameplay offers more to dissect. His total shots per game sit at 2.58, placing him in the 51st percentile, which supports his above-average finishing skills. However, his creativity numbers are a mixed bag with assists sitting in the 55th percentile which is fairly average, he is over-performing in this regard with his xAG sat in the 8th percentile.

Evaluating Defensive Metrics

Defensively, Sesko’s contributions are noteworthy for a forward, with his blocks and clearances standing out impressively in the 94th and 89th percentiles, respectively. These statistics show his willingness to contribute to defensive duties, a valuable trait in modern football’s high-pressing systems.

In summary, Benjamin Sesko’s performance data from Fbref highlights a player with formidable goal-scoring instincts and budding playmaking potential. As he continues to refine his skills, his holistic contributions could see him rise as a complete forward in top-tier European football.