Benjamin Sesko’s future looks set to dominate the final weeks of the transfer window after Manchester United launched a formal £73.8 million bid for the RB Leipzig striker prompting major bookmakers to suspend all bets on the Slovenian’s next move.
United’s proposal, an initial £65.1m rising to £73.8m with add-ons, comes just 24 hours after Newcastle tabled a slightly higher total package of £78.2m. Despite the marginally lower valuation, United are confident that Sesko’s preference to join the Old Trafford club will prove decisive.
Betting markets were promptly suspended following the offer. Sam Rosbottom of Betfair confirmed: “United were odds-on favourites to land Sesko at 8/15, but with the latest developments, we’ve pulled the market altogether.”
The 22-year-old forward, who netted 21 goals in all competitions last term, is expected to train separately from his Leipzig teammates as talks continue. While Leipzig are yet to formally respond to United’s bid, it’s understood Sesko has an informal agreement allowing him to leave should the right offer materialise.
United’s pursuit of a new No.9 intensified after missing out on Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitike, and Viktor Gyokeres – who joined Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal respectively. The club have already splashed over £130m this summer on Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, with Rasmus Hojlund now tipped for a move in the opposite direction, potentially to Leipzig.
Newcastle, meanwhile, view Sesko as a direct replacement for Alexander Isak, who is pushing for a switch to Liverpool. The Magpies made contact with Sesko’s camp over the weekend but may be forced to turn to alternatives – including PSG’s Gonçalo Ramos – if United secure a swift breakthrough.
Christopher Vivell, United’s director of recruitment and a former colleague of Sesko at RB Salzburg, is understood to be leading the charge. He views the 6ft 4in striker as a potential world-beater.
United remain tight-lipped, but chief executive Omar Berrada confirmed from Atlanta: “We’re working around the clock to strengthen this squad.” The coming days promise a dramatic conclusion to a transfer saga now hanging in the balance.
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