Manchester United have identified RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko as their top target in the search for a new centre-forward this summer, with initial talks already held over a potential deal.
The 22-year-old Slovenia international is viewed as a long-term solution to United’s striking needs, and discussions have taken place both with Leipzig and Sesko’s representatives. While the Red Devils are keen to secure his services, any deal is expected to be complex from a financial perspective.
Newcastle United are also monitoring the situation closely, but it is believed that Sesko currently favours a move to Old Trafford.
The interest from United is being led by the club’s recruitment director, Christopher Vivell, who was instrumental in bringing Sesko to Red Bull Salzburg when he was just 16.
United have maintained a long-standing interest in the striker, keeping tabs on his development through his time in Austria and now Germany.
Though Manchester United’s immediate focus remains on player sales to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations, the club has conducted due diligence on several forwards this summer. Talks were held with Aston Villa regarding Ollie Watkins, and tentative interest was shown in Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson, but both deals were deemed financially unfeasible due to the structure and asking prices.
In contrast, while Sesko would command a higher total outlay than Watkins, it’s believed that a more favourable payment structure could be arranged with Leipzig. The German club is reportedly using Hugo Ekitike’s recent £69m move to Liverpool, plus £10m in add-ons, as a benchmark in negotiations.
Importantly, Sesko is understood to have a gentleman’s agreement with Leipzig that would allow him to leave if a suitable offer is presented — a key factor in potentially smoothing the path to a deal.
What Would Sesko Bring to Old Trafford?
Sesko has netted 39 goals in 87 appearances since joining Leipzig from sister club Red Bull Salzburg two years ago. While not yet at the elite scoring level of Erling Haaland, comparisons are inevitable due to their similar physical profiles.
Standing at 6ft 4in, Sesko combines size, strength, and aerial ability with notable pace and mobility. He is capable of operating as a traditional targetman—holding up play, linking with teammates, and posing a constant threat from set pieces—while also possessing the speed to stretch defences and run in behind.
In the Bundesliga last season, Sesko reached a top speed of 35.69 km/h, ranking 26th among 492 players. In the previous campaign, he ranked 15th, underscoring his impressive athleticism.
His arrival would continue United’s theme of adding pace to their front line, following the signing of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, who was the fourth-fastest player in the Premier League last season with a top speed of 36.63 km/h.
With Manchester United eyeing a refreshed and more dynamic attack for the upcoming season, Sesko represents both a long-term investment and an exciting addition to the club’s evolving identity under the new manager Ruben Amorim.