Transfer Battle Intensifies: Manchester United and Newcastle Fight for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko in €85M Race
The summer transfer window is heating up as Manchester United and Newcastle United go head-to-head in a fierce battle to sign RB Leipzig’s rising star, Benjamin Sesko. The 22-year-old Slovenian striker has become one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe, attracting serious interest from multiple top-flight clubs. However, it is the two Premier League powerhouses who have now taken centre stage in the race for his signature.
Both clubs have reportedly submitted competitive bids worth €85 million, showing just how highly they rate the young forward. Sesko has impressed with his strength, technical ability, and goal-scoring instincts, making him an ideal target for clubs looking to bolster their attacking options.
For Manchester United, who are undergoing a major rebuild after a disappointing season, Sesko represents a potential long-term solution to their goal-scoring struggles. Newcastle, on the other hand, see him as a vital addition to their squad as they prepare for another push in Europe, especially with uncertainty surrounding their current striker, Alexander Isak.
With RB Leipzig already preparing for life without Sesko, the transfer saga is reaching a critical stage. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely as one of the most exciting deals of the summer edges closer to completion.
Red Devils Launch Massive Bid to Secure Sesko
According to reputable German tabloid Bild, Manchester United have submitted a substantial bid of €85 million (approximately £73.9 million) in a bold move to land the highly sought-after forward. The offer reportedly went in on Tuesday, signalling the club’s intention to make Sesko a major figure in their rebuilding project under manager Erik ten Hag.
This marks a significant development in United’s transfer strategy, as they look to overhaul an underperforming attack that saw them finish their 2024/25 campaign in disappointing fashion. The Old Trafford side endured their worst league finish in over five decades, compounded by a painful Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur.
Newcastle United Respond with Counter-Bid
Manchester United’s approach came hot on the heels of Newcastle United’s own pursuit of the Slovenian international. Sources indicate that the Magpies initially tabled an €80 million offer on Saturday, only to increase it to match United’s €85 million bid with bonuses included by Monday. Their swift escalation demonstrates Newcastle’s urgent need to strengthen their front line, particularly with increasing uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future.
There are reports suggesting that Liverpool, the reigning Premier League champions, are aggressively pursuing Isak. Should the Swedish striker make the switch to Anfield, Newcastle would be in dire need of a capable replacement—and Sesko fits that profile perfectly.
Benjamin Sesko: A Striker in High Demand
Benjamin Sesko is no stranger to the spotlight. The 6ft 5in striker has already built a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising forwards. Despite RB Leipzig’s underwhelming league performance last season, Sesko impressed with 13 goals and five assists. His powerful presence, clinical finishing, and intelligent movement make him a classic centre-forward with modern versatility.
At just 22 years old, Sesko has also shown maturity on the international stage. Representing Slovenia, he has already amassed 41 caps and 16 goals—an exceptional return that highlights his ability to deliver under pressure.
Such statistics have not gone unnoticed. Beyond Manchester United and Newcastle, several other clubs have reportedly monitored Sesko’s development, but the current tug-of-war suggests these two English sides are the most serious contenders.
Leipzig Withdraws Sesko From Friendly Amid Transfer Speculation
Amid swirling speculation, Sesko was noticeably absent from Leipzig’s weekend friendly against Serie A outfit Atalanta, which ended in a 2-1 defeat for the German club. His absence raised eyebrows, and shortly after, the club confirmed it was due to mounting transfer interest.
RB Leipzig’s sporting director Marcel Schaefer addressed the issue candidly:
“Benjamin Sesko did not feature in the friendly due to very concrete interest from several clubs. It’s in his and the club’s best interest to evaluate options without risking injury.”
This statement added credibility to the reports of active negotiations and signalled that Sesko’s transfer could be imminent.
Manchester United’s Summer Overhaul: A New Era in Attack
The pursuit of Sesko is part of a broader overhaul at Old Trafford, with Manchester United already securing the signings of forwards Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo earlier in the summer window. Both players bring dynamism and creativity to a previously underperforming frontline, but the club still lacks a dominant striker who can lead the line week in, week out.
That’s where Sesko comes in.
Erik ten Hag, under pressure to deliver results after a turbulent 2024/25 campaign, is believed to view Sesko as a long-term solution to United’s goal-scoring woes. However, bringing in the Slovenian star could have unintended consequences for the club’s existing talent pool.
Rasmus Hojlund’s Future in Doubt
One of the biggest question marks hovering over Old Trafford concerns the future of Rasmus Hojlund, who was signed from Atalanta in 2023 for a reported €75 million. Despite the high price tag and initial promise, Hojlund struggled to adapt to the Premier League’s intensity, often appearing isolated and ineffective in key fixtures.
Now, with the potential arrival of another marquee striker, Hojlund could be on the chopping block. Reports emerging from inside the club suggest that United are willing to part ways with the Denmark international for as little as €35 million—less than half of what they paid just two seasons ago.
A move away from Manchester could serve as a reset for the 21-year-old, whose confidence appears to have waned amidst growing competition and media scrutiny.
Newcastle’s Ambitions Signal Title Intentions
Over at St James’ Park, Newcastle United’s pursuit of Benjamin Sesko underscores their evolving ambitions. After finishing fifth last season and securing a Champions League spot, the club is determined to build on their momentum and establish themselves as a permanent fixture in Europe’s elite.
The financial muscle provided by their Saudi-backed ownership has enabled Newcastle to compete with traditional heavyweights like Manchester United. But beyond the finances, the club has shown a clear vision for growth, focusing on acquiring young, high-potential players who can deliver both short-term impact and long-term value.
Sesko fits that strategy perfectly.
At 22, he offers immediate quality and the prospect of becoming a world-class striker. His style of play—combining physicality, speed, and technical skill—would mesh well with manager Eddie Howe’s high-pressing system.
Sesko’s Decision: A Career-Defining Moment
As both Premier League clubs push aggressively to seal the deal, the ball is now in Benjamin Sesko’s court. The Slovenian striker faces a monumental decision that could define the trajectory of his career. Does he choose Manchester United, with its storied history, global fanbase, and urgent need for revival? Or does he opt for Newcastle United, a rising force in English football with a clear project and Champions League football next season?
Each option offers its unique advantages—and risks.
- Manchester United promises legacy, exposure, and the chance to become the next striker icon in a line that includes Ruud van Nistelrooy, Wayne Rooney, and Robin van Persie. But the pressure and instability at the club could prove overwhelming.
- Newcastle, on the other hand, provides a more settled environment and the opportunity to be the focal point of a rapidly ascending team. Yet, they still lack the trophy-winning pedigree and global pull of a club like United.
Market Dynamics: Why This Transfer Matters
Sesko’s potential move will not only reshape the futures of Manchester United or Newcastle United—it also signals a broader shift in the Premier League’s transfer market dynamics. With fees hovering around €85 million, this transfer is another testament to how young talent is increasingly valued over experience, especially when clubs are building for the future.
Moreover, it highlights the financial clout of English clubs, who continue to outspend their European rivals with seemingly unshakeable resources and relentless ambition.
For RB Leipzig, cashing in on Sesko for such a high figure would be considered another masterclass in player development and resale. The club has gained a reputation for nurturing talent—Timo Werner, Christopher Nkunku, and Josko Gvardiol are prime examples—and Sesko appears to be the next big export.
What Happens Next?
With both Manchester United and Newcastle United submitting strong bids for Benjamin Sesko, and RB Leipzig already bracing for his potential exit, all attention now shifts to the player and his representatives.
The next steps will involve intense negotiations. Key factors include agreeing on personal terms, agent fees, and passing the necessary medical checks. These details will determine where Sesko plays next season.
Both Premier League clubs are eager to finalize the transfer quickly, hoping to integrate the striker into their squads ahead of the new campaign. United see Sesko as a crucial piece in their rebuild, while Newcastle view him as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak, who may be heading to Liverpool.
Although no official agreement has been reached yet, a decision could come within days, not weeks. With the transfer window heating up, Sesko’s move is shaping up to be one of the most high-profile deals of the summer.
For now, football fans around the world are watching closely, waiting to see where one of Europe’s most promising young forwards will land. Whichever club secures his signature will be making a bold statement of intent.