Manchester United have won the race to sign Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, beating Newcastle United to one of the most sought-after signatures of the summer.
The 22-year-old Slovenian striker, long tipped as one of Europe’s brightest young forwards, was at the centre of a tense bidding battle between the two Premier League rivals. Newcastle struck first with a €75m (£65m) bid plus €5m in add-ons, rebuffed by Leipzig, before returning with an €80m (£70m) offer.
United responded within 24 hours, tabling €75m plus €10m in bonuses. The Magpies countered again, agreeing terms with Leipzig at €82.5m (£72m) plus €2.5m in add-ons only for Sesko to make clear his preference for Old Trafford. With the player’s mind made up, United accelerated talks and closed the deal, announcing the striker’s arrival on a contract until June 2030.
Sesko becomes United’s third major signing of the summer, following £62.5m Matheus Cunha and £71m Bryan Mbeumo, as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos continue to back Ruben Amorim’s overhaul of the squad.
Speaking after his unveiling, Sesko admitted the club’s heritage was a pull, but it was the future that convinced him: “When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again. From the moment I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment. It’s the perfect place to reach my maximum level.”
United’s director of football Jason Wilcox hailed the capture as a major statement. “Benjamin has a rare blend of pace and physicality that makes him one of the most exciting young players in the game. Our data and scouting told us he has the qualities and personality to thrive here. Under Ruben’s guidance, we believe he can reach his world-class potential.”
For Newcastle, who pushed hard until the final whistle, it will be a bitter blow. For United, it’s the latest sign that the club’s pulling power remains a decisive factor in the market and that Amorim’s rebuild is gathering serious momentum.
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