Manchester United’s pursuit of highly-rated striker Benjamin Sesko is intensifying, with a deal reportedly nearing completion. However, as the Manchester United transfer saga unfolds, a peculiar snag has emerged concerning the Slovenian international’s preferred squad numbers, posing an unexpected dilemma for the promising forward.
Under the strategic guidance of manager Ruben Amorim, Manchester United is actively seeking to bolster its attacking prowess. Despite Rasmus Hojlund’s recent strong performances and expressed desire to remain at the club, the Red Devils are keen to acquire another formidable No.9 to enhance their goal-scoring capabilities in the competitive Premier League.
Benjamin Sesko himself is reportedly keen on the prospect of joining the illustrious thirteen-time Premier League champions, eager to contribute to their revival. His impressive statistics from the 2024/25 season, where he notched 21 goals and six assists across 45 appearances for RB Leipzig, underscore his prolific ability and why he is a prime target in football news.
The primary sticking point revolves around Sesko’s “dream” squad number, a digit he cherished from his formative years leading the line for NK Domzale’s Under-17s. While typically available due to its unique nature, this specific number has already been allocated to young defender Diego Leon, who arrived at Old Trafford earlier in the summer, effectively taking it off the table for Benjamin Sesko.
Historically, the number in question has been worn by a lineage of Manchester United players, including notable figures such as Wes Brown during the 1998/99 treble-winning season and John O’Shea from 2000/01 to 2001/02. This lineage adds a layer of significance to the squad numbers at Old Trafford, highlighting the tradition that prospective new signings often wish to embrace.
Beyond his cherished boyhood number, Sesko has sported various squad numbers throughout his career. Internationally, he has worn No.25 and No.11, but both are presently occupied by key Manchester United players, Manuel Ugarte and a currently unnamed player respectively, making them unavailable for the Slovenian striker.
However, a potential opening exists with the No.21 shirt, currently held by a player expected to depart Old Trafford this summer. Another familiar option for Benjamin Sesko could be No.29, a number he previously wore during his time with RB Salzburg’s U19s. This could be the most viable choice for the young striker as he embarks on his new Premier League challenge.
As the Manchester United transfer inches closer to completion, the resolution of this squad numbers conundrum will be a minor, yet symbolic, aspect of Benjamin Sesko’s integration into the club. While his on-field performance is paramount, securing a meaningful number can often play a psychological role for players settling into a new environment in the high-stakes world of football news.
