Manchester United have finally made their move and submitted a formal offer for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.
Multiple reports this lunchtime suggest United have offered £65.2million with another £8.6m in add-ons to beat off competition from Newcastle for the 22-year-old.
Leipzig have yet to respond but it may be significant that United were believed to be waiting on the green light from the player before approaching the Bundesliga club.
Earlier, it had been reported that Newcastle had submitted an improved bid after seeing their initial offer of £65.3m, plus £4.4m in add-ons rejected.
The ball is now in Leipzig’s court although it could be the player’s desire to test himself in the Premier League is taken into account.
Why are Manchester United and Newcastle targeting Sesko?
The Slovenian forward only joined Leipzig from Red Bull Salzburg in 2023. Since then, he has registered 39 goals and eight assists in 87 appearances.
Last year, he signed a contract extension until 2029. While the deal does not include a formal release clause, it is widely believed there is a gentleman’s agreement that Leipzig would not block a move if the right sporting project and offer came along.
Sesko’s previous contract had contained a €65m release clause.
On the international stage, Sesko has already become a talisman for Slovenia. He made his senior debut a day after turning 18 and has gone on to earn 41 caps, scoring 16 goals. He was part of his country’s squad at Euro 2024.
Striker merry-go-round continues
Should Sesko opt for Old Trafford over St James’ Park, it could further complicate Liverpool’s move for Alexander Isak.
The Premier League champions saw an offer for Isak rejected last week and have so far resisted the temptation to go back with a higher bid.
But if Newcastle were to snare a replacement of Sesko’s quality it may convince them to cash in on a player who has made it clear he wishes to join Liverpool.
From a United standpoint, Sesko would bring a much-needed focal point to their attack.
Rasmus Hojlund has looked sharp in pre-season but his record of 14 goals in 62 Premier League appearances demonstrate his struggles since joining from Atalanta.
United have signed Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this summer but both largely operate off a number nine.
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2025-08-05 15:13:42
