United Prioritise Striker as Leipzig Talks Intensify Amid Newcastle Pressure | OneFootball

Manchester United Focus In On Sesko Amid Fierce Transfer Battle

Sesko Emerges as Manchester United’s Top Target

Manchester United’s summer transfer window has pivoted decisively toward one man: Benjamin Sesko. The RB Leipzig striker has become the club’s “priority target” as they intensify efforts to bolster their attacking line. According to The Athletic, informal discussions with Leipzig and the player’s representatives have taken place, although a formal proposal from United has yet to be submitted.

While United’s intent is clear, Newcastle United have taken a bolder stance. “Competition from Newcastle United is fierce — they made an improved offer for the striker on Monday night. An opening bid worth €75m plus €5million in add-ons was deemed insufficient by Leipzig, leading Newcastle to raise that to at least €80m.”

United, by comparison, remain in the shadows of this bidding war, with their suggested figures lagging behind their Premier League rivals. Whether they are simply biding their time or holding back for financial prudence remains to be seen.

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Vivell Connection Could Prove Crucial

There is a sense of long-term planning behind United’s pursuit. Christopher Vivell, now the club’s director of recruitment, previously worked at Red Bull Salzburg when Sesko was brought in from Domzale. His understanding of the player’s development could be decisive.

This isn’t the first time United have looked at Sesko. Interest dates back to when he was just 16, with further scouting under Erik ten Hag and again last summer. The idea has persisted. The potential remains intoxicating.

At 22, Sesko has already clocked 27 Bundesliga goals in 64 appearances. He blends size, speed and precision in a way few young forwards do. There is still refinement to come, but he is “one of the most highly rated young centre-forwards in Europe.”

High Stakes and Higher Expectations

United face a significant financial commitment if they are to win this race. Spending more than €80 million on potential, not proven dominance, presents a major call. Still, the upside is clear. “Spending north of €80m on Sesko’s potential would represent a gamble, but should he realise that potential, United would have a striker capable of leading the line for years to come.”

There’s also the knock-on effect. Rasmus Hojlund’s future looks less certain with Sesko potentially arriving. The Dane, just a year into his Old Trafford spell, may find himself surplus to requirements. The club would accept around £30 million despite his £40 million book value.

Omar Berrada, United’s chief executive, assured fans the club is active. “There has been lots of late calls and early morning meetings to make sure we stay on top of it,” he told MUTV. These are decisive weeks.

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Other Transfer Considerations

Beyond the forward line, United are assessing midfield and goalkeeping options. Amorim wants more mobility in midfield, and while a new goalkeeper is being evaluated, any move there depends on whether Altay Bayindir departs.

Outgoings could continue with Antony attracting interest from Real Betis, and Chelsea eyeing Alejandro Garnacho. Sancho, Malacia and Toby Collyer may also move on, while academy talents Jack Moorhouse and Ethan Wheatley have been loaned out.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For United fans, the pursuit of Benjamin Sesko is equal parts exciting and nerve-racking. There is clear talent in the Slovenian forward, but fans are wary of another costly experiment. Hojlund was supposed to be the future just 12 months ago, and now his place is under threat.

The concern isn’t just the fee, but the pattern. United have spent heavily on raw attacking talents in recent years without seeing a consistent return. Sancho, Martial, Hojlund; they all came with high hopes. Yet here we are again, staring down an €80 million move for a striker with only two seasons of top-flight experience.

But fans also know the potential reward. Sesko has the makings of a complete forward. If Vivell believes in him, and Amorim can harness him, United could be laying the foundation for a decade-long solution up front.

Ultimately, though, many supporters will judge this summer by the final outcomes. Signing Sesko is fine, but only if the midfield and goalkeeper concerns are also resolved. United need a full squad, not just a shiny new No. 9.