Revealed: Why Man United hold advantage over Arsenal to sign Benjamin Sesko | OneFootball

Manchester United’s pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko may hinge on a familiar figure: director of recruitment Christopher Vivell.

With the 22-year-old Slovenian forward attracting widespread interest across Europe, Vivell’s longstanding relationship with the player could give United an unexpected advantage in what is shaping up to be one of the transfer window’s most competitive races.

Sesko, who joined Leipzig in 2022 after developing at Red Bull Salzburg, has quickly established himself as one of the most promising young strikers in Europe.

Benjamin Sesko has impressed the biggest clubs

Sesko scored 21 goals in all competitions for RB Leipzig this season, once again showcasing his goal scoring quality.

The powerful 6ft 5in forward has the quality to score goals, combining pace, technical skill, and physicality in a manner that has drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland.

RB Leipzig are reportedly open to selling Sesko this summer, valuing the striker at around £75 million.

The price tag has not deterred several European clubs, with Arsenal, Juventus, and AC Milan all credited with interest. However, United’s internal connections may give them a crucial edge.

According to a report from BILD, Vivell, who now plays a central role in shaping United’s recruitment strategy, was instrumental in Sesko’s development during his time as head of scouting at Red Bull Salzburg.

It was Vivell who identified Sesko’s potential and helped facilitate his move from Slovenian club Domzale to Salzburg in 2019, when the striker was just 16 years old.

Man United have advantage over Arsenal

Benjamin Sesko to Man United? (Photo by Ronny HARTMANN / AFP)

The pair are understood to have maintained a strong professional relationship over the years, and Vivell has reportedly continued to track Sesko’s progress closely.

In fact, he is said to have personally scouted the striker in April as United intensified their search for a long-term solution up front.

Despite not being able to offer European football next season, United hope that Vivell’s connection with Sesko can help them win the race against Arsenal to sign the attacker.

Man United star says ‘yes to the project’; this could be his end at Old Trafford