Manchester United fans, brace yourselves—the transfer saga of the summer has reached its climax! RB Leipzig’s star striker Benjamin Sesko is set to join the Red Devils, with reliable sources confirming that personal terms have been agreed upon, and club-to-club negotiations are in the final stages. The Slovenian sensation is poised to become United’s marquee signing as they aim to bolster their attacking line for the 2025/26 Premier League season.
A Long-Standing Target
Manchester United’s pursuit of Sesko is no secret. The club has tracked the 22-year-old since his days at Domzale in Slovenia, with interest dating back to 2019 when he was just 16. United’s recruitment director, Christopher Vivell, who previously worked with Sesko at Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig, has been instrumental in pushing this deal forward. Vivell’s familiarity with the 6ft 4in forward, combined with manager Ruben Amorim’s vision for a dynamic attack, has made Sesko the top priority this transfer window.
The Transfer Battle
The race for Sesko’s signature was a fierce one, with Newcastle United also vying for the young star. The Magpies, desperate to replace Alexander Isak amid his potential move to Liverpool, tabled a hefty bid of €80m (£69.7m) plus add-ons. However, Sesko’s preference for Old Trafford proved decisive. Manchester United’s offer, reportedly worth €75m (£65.3m) with €10m (£8.7m) in add-ons, has been enough to sway RB Leipzig, who have a gentleman’s agreement allowing Sesko to leave for the right price.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Sesko has agreed to a contract with United until June 2030, signaling his commitment to the club’s long-term project. “The club believes Benjamin Šeško only wants to join Manchester United,” Romano posted on X, emphasizing that the player’s decision is clear despite Newcastle’s financial muscle.
Why Sesko?
Sesko’s appeal is undeniable. With 39 goals in 87 appearances for RB Leipzig since joining from Salzburg in 2023, the Slovenian international combines physicality, pace, and clinical finishing. Often compared to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland for his 6ft 4in frame and blistering speed (clocked at 35.69 km/h in the Bundesliga), Sesko is a rare talent. His eight headed goals over the past two Bundesliga seasons highlight his aerial prowess, while his ability to stretch defenses makes him a perfect fit for United’s counter-attacking style under Amorim.
Leipzig teammate Yussuf Poulsen has called Sesko “the best striking partner” he’s ever played with, praising his all-around ability. “He has everything a top number nine needs,” Poulsen told TNT Sports, a sentiment echoed by Ridle Baku, who noted Sesko’s immediate impact in training.
What This Means for United
United’s attack has been a weak point, with only 44 Premier League goals last season—their lowest in a generation. The arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo earlier this window have added flair, but Sesko’s signing addresses the need for a true No. 9. His addition could spell uncertainty for Rasmus Hojlund, with Leipzig exploring a loan move for the Dane as part of the deal. However, Amorim has suggested both strikers could coexist, with Hojlund’s recent pre-season form showing promise.
With Sesko’s transfer edging closer, United fans are buzzing. Social media clues, like Sesko’s absence from Leipzig’s third kit reveal and his agent’s visit to Old Trafford, have only fueled the excitement.
The Road Ahead
As negotiations progress, Sesko is expected to fly to the UK to finalize the move once Leipzig greenlights the deal. The transfer fee, likely around £74m, marks a significant investment, but United’s financial flexibility—bolstered by player sales and Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s takeover—makes it feasible.
For fans, this is a statement signing that signals United’s intent to reclaim their place among the Premier League’s elite. Stay tuned to Street for updates as the deal nears completion and for all the latest football news. Stay tued to street.co.ke for all the transfer stories around the world!