Manchester United’s persistent pursuit of a new striker has escalated dramatically in the summer 2025 transfer window, as their long-anticipated concrete approach for Benjamin Sesko now faces intense competition and escalating financial demands.
The club’s strategic delay in securing a top-tier number nine has proven to be a significant hurdle, particularly after a previously identified target, Viktor Gyokeres, opted for a move to Premier League rivals Arsenal, further strengthening their title aspirations.
With a dwindling pool of legitimate options available in the current market, Manchester United’s focus has keenly sharpened on Benjamin Sesko, the highly-regarded young forward from RB Leipzig, who is widely considered one of the most promising talents in global football.
RB Leipzig, having successfully fended off potential suitors for Sesko in prior transfer windows, has now established a firm asking price of at least 75 million euros, signaling their steadfast resolve to be appropriately compensated for their valuable asset.
However, the Red Devils are not navigating this transfer alone, as Saudi Arabia-backed Newcastle United has emerged as a formidable rival. Newcastle’s heightened interest stems from their own recent setbacks in the transfer market, including missing out on Hugo Ekitike and facing the imminent prospect of Alexander Isak departing for Liverpool.
Newcastle United’s substantial offer of 80 million euros currently stands as the most robust bid for Benjamin Sesko to date, placing considerable pressure on Manchester United to either match or exceed this figure to secure the talented Slovenian striker’s coveted services.
Despite recent attacking reinforcements, including the acquisitions of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, who bring proven Premier League track records, Manchester United still acknowledges the critical need for a superior central striker to complete their attacking quartet, an essential upgrade on existing options like Rasmus Hojlund.
A potential turning point in this intricate transfer negotiation could involve the inclusion of Rasmus Hojlund in a direct swap deal, an option reportedly considered by RB Leipzig. This strategic maneuver might provide Manchester United with the necessary leverage to persuade the German club to favor their bid over Newcastle’s.
The protracted Benjamin Sesko transfer saga underscores a pivotal moment for Manchester United’s squad development, as successfully securing this highly sought-after forward could profoundly influence their competitive standing and aspirations for the upcoming football season.
