Benjamin Sesko snubs Newcastle to seal €85m Manchester United move

Manchester United have won the race for one of Europe’s most sought-after young strikers, with 22-year-old Slovenian star Benjamin Sesko set to swap RB Leipzig for Old Trafford in a deal worth around €85 million.

The move, which includes achievable add-ons, a sell-on clause, and even a friendly between the two clubs, marks United’s third marquee signing of the summer. Sesko joins Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo as part of a recruitment drive that has already pushed the club’s summer spending towards the £200 million mark.

A striker with options – but only one destination in mind

While Newcastle United made multiple bids in a bid to lure Sesko to Tyneside, sources say the forward was clear from the start about his preference: he wanted Manchester United. That decision will sting for the Magpies, especially after their own star striker, Alexander Isak, has been linked with Liverpool.

Sesko had been training separately from Leipzig’s main squad as negotiations gathered pace. Now, with the deal agreed, he will fly to Manchester on Thursday evening for his medical. If all goes to plan, he could be unveiled at Old Trafford before United’s pre-season friendly against Fiorentina on Saturday.

From Salzburg to the spotlight

Sesko’s rise has been rapid. After catching attention at RB Salzburg with his tall frame, powerful movement, and clinical finishing, he moved to Leipzig in 2023 and continued his growth, scoring 21 goals in 45 appearances last season.

United fans will be hoping his arrival can inject the kind of firepower needed to challenge for honours again, especially after the club’s attack struggled for consistency last term.

Reaction from fans and the football world

On social media, United supporters have already been buzzing, hailing Sesko as a “future star” and praising the club for beating Newcastle to his signature. Newcastle fans, on the other hand, have expressed frustration at losing out, with some pointing fingers at the club’s inability to compete on player preference, despite financial backing.

Football analysts see the deal as a statement of intent from United, but also a big gamble on a player still developing at the top level. “Sesko has the talent,” wrote one pundit on X (formerly Twitter), “but Old Trafford can be a heavy shirt to wear. The question is – can he deliver when the pressure is on?”

What this means for Newcastle and the Premier League

With Sesko now heading to Manchester, Newcastle may be forced to fight even harder to keep Isak. Liverpool have already tested their resolve with one bid, and the Premier League’s striker merry-go-round could be only just beginning.

As for United, this is a clear signal they want to go into the new season with momentum, firepower, and ambition – and they believe Benjamin Sesko is the man to lead the line.

Source:ESPN Africa 

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