Manchester United have set the football world abuzz by submitting a bid worth just under £74 million (€85 million) to RB Leipzig for the prolific Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko. This ambitious move underlines the club’s determination to strengthen their attacking options and signals their intent to reassert themselves among Europe’s elite. The bid consists of an initial £65 million, with the remainder coming in performance-related add-ons. Interestingly, Newcastle United also remain in the race, having lodged a slightly higher offer, but reports indicate Sesko is leaning towards a switch to Old Trafford.
Why Sesko?
At just 21 years old, Benjamin Sesko has rapidly risen through the ranks in European football. Since his transfer from Red Bull Salzburg to RB Leipzig, he has established himself as a clinical forward with impressive physical attributes, aerial prowess, and keen tactical intelligence. Over two Bundesliga seasons, Sesko has scored 27 goals—outperforming Manchester United’s own Rasmus Hojlund, who has managed 14 Premier League goals since his £64 million arrival from Atalanta. These statistics highlight why United have targeted Sesko as the striker who could spearhead their attack for years to come.
Critically, United’s current goal-scoring record underlines the need for firepower up front. Despite benefiting from Bruno Fernandes—last season’s most prolific chance creator in the Premier League—the team struggled to convert opportunities, often lacking a cutting edge in decisive moments. Many fans and pundits have questioned whether the sizeable investment should have been made in a dynamic midfielder; however, it’s clear that manager Ruben Amorim, frustrated by the team’s goal-scoring struggles last campaign, views a new striker as a top priority.
The Bidding War
United’s bid is believed to be slightly less than Newcastle’s, which reportedly includes an upfront offer of around €80 million plus €10 million in add-ons—totaling nearly €90 million. Despite the Magpies’ aggressive push, several trusted sources suggest Sesko himself is inclined towards Manchester United, with the allure of playing at one of the world’s most storied clubs playing a significant role in his thinking. Nevertheless, Leipzig are yet to accept either bid, instead enjoying the leverage of a bidding war between two Premier League giants.
As it stands, the decision appears to rest with Sesko and his representatives. Newcastle are pressing for clarity, seeking a swift resolution after missing out on several high-priority transfer targets earlier in the window. United, meanwhile, have demonstrated their seriousness by lodging a formal bid, making it clear they are not content to be bystanders in the transfer market.
A Transformative Transfer
Should United’s pursuit prove successful, Sesko would become the focal point of what is shaping up to be a revamped attacking line. Alongside recent signings such as Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo—pushing United’s summer expenditure towards £130 million—Sesko could benefit from ample support and creative supply. With Fernandes, Cunha, and Mbeumo all ranking among the league’s top chance creators for their previous clubs, Sesko’s arrival could transform United’s attack into one of the Premier League’s most formidable outfits.
The move also poses questions for Rasmus Hojlund’s future at the club, as United are reportedly open to offers for the young Dane, seeking not just competition but perhaps a complete reshuffle in their forward positions.
Conclusion
Manchester United’s £74 million bid for Benjamin Sesko is a statement of ambition—a calculated gamble on one of Europe’s brightest young forwards to resolve their goal-scoring dilemmas. While the saga is far from over, United fans have reason for excitement. Whether Sesko ultimately dons the famous red shirt may hinge as much on his own preferences as on financial negotiations, but what’s undeniable is that Manchester United have well and truly placed themselves at the heart of the summer’s most captivating transfer race.