Sesko Sets His Sights on Old Trafford Amid Premier League Tug-of-War
RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko appears poised to join Manchester United after weeks of transfer speculation. The 22-year-old Slovenian international has reportedly made it clear he favors a move to Old Trafford over St James’ Park, dealing another blow to Newcastle United’s frustrating summer window. According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, United have submitted an official bid and remain confident of completing the deal.
Manchester United Take Lead in Sesko Pursuit
On Tuesday afternoon, Manchester United officially entered the race for Benjamin Sesko with a concrete offer: €75 million plus €10 million in add-ons, totaling €85 million. The bid came shortly after Newcastle raised their own offer from €85 million to €90 million in hopes of landing the talented forward as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak.
However, United’s confidence stems not from their financial package alone, but from Sesko’s reported desire to play under new boss Ruben Amorim at Old Trafford. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that United have also sent an official contract proposal to the player, further solidifying their position.
Manchester United believe Benjamin Sesko only wants to join them.
Romano revealed Tuesday night on X (formerly Twitter). “The feeling within the club is stronger than ever.
Another Transfer Blow for Newcastle United
It’s been a transfer window to forget for Newcastle. After already missing out on key targets like Joao Pedro and James Trafford, the Magpies now face the double dilemma of losing Isak to Liverpool and failing to secure Sesko as his successor.
Newcastle had earmarked Sesko as their top option should Isak leave for Anfield. The Swedish striker has reportedly expressed a desire to join Liverpool, although Newcastle are reluctant to sell without having a top-tier replacement ready. That plan now appears to be unraveling.
Sesko, who netted 13 goals in 33 Bundesliga matches last season, was viewed as the ideal solution. But with Manchester United aggressively stepping in, Newcastle’s hopes are fading fast.
United Bet Big on Youth Over Experience
Manchester United’s pursuit of Sesko highlights their continued investment in young, high-upside forwards. Comparisons have already been drawn to Rasmus Højlund, another 22-year-old striker who arrived from Atalanta last summer for €80 million but has yet to fully justify the price tag.
While Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins — a proven Premier League scorer with 75 goals in 184 appearances — is reportedly open to a move, United appear to favor youth and potential resale value over guaranteed short-term output. Watkins, at 29, doesn’t fit the profile United’s current recruitment strategy seems to prioritize.
Whether this gamble pays off remains to be seen, but the club is doubling down on its belief that Sesko is the right fit for their future — and they’re willing to outmaneuver their rivals to get him.
