RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko is reportedly keen on a move to Manchester United, with talks between the two parties reportedly “closing in”. Both Manchester United and Newcastle United have made significant bids for the 22-year-old Slovenian, who is emerging as one of the most sought-after young talents in European football.
Sesko’s Record and the Bidding War
Sesko’s rise has been meteoric. The young striker is currently Europe’s top scorer under the age of 23 in the top five leagues. Since August 2023, Sesko has scored 39 league goals—one more than Jude Bellingham, who is in second place. His blend of size, strength, pace, and clinical finishing makes him a potential game-changer, and it’s easy to see why both Premier League clubs are willing to offer more than £70 million for his services.
Sesko Compared to Other Young Strikers
Sesko stands out not only for his goal-scoring record but also when compared to other young strikers. For instance, Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund has scored just 14 league goals in two seasons, whereas Sesko has netted 27 Bundesliga goals in the same timeframe. His ability to deliver consistently in a top European league makes him a highly desirable prospect for clubs looking to strengthen their attacking options.
Would Manchester United Be a Good Fit for Sesko?
Sesko would likely be a starter at Manchester United, where he could form part of a revamped forward line alongside Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. The team boasts creative talent, with Bruno Fernandes, who created 91 chances last season, providing plenty of opportunities for an attacking player like Sesko. Mbeumo and Cunha also created 70 and 57 chances, respectively, indicating the kind of service the young striker could receive at Old Trafford.
However, one major obstacle is United’s lack of European competition this season, as the club did not qualify for any European tournaments. The team also endured their worst-ever domestic season last year, finishing 15th, which could be a deterrent for a player like Sesko, who might be seeking a move to a more competitive environment.
The Potential Challenge for Sesko
While Sesko would be a great addition to Manchester United’s attacking options, he would be following a trend of players who have struggled at the club in recent years. Since 2016, Portugal’s Bruno Fernandes has arguably been United’s only outright success in the transfer market, making it uncertain whether Sesko could thrive in a similarly challenging environment. Furthermore, the possibility of a managerial change at United if Ruben Amorim doesn’t deliver could make the situation even more uncertain for the Slovenian forward.
Despite these concerns, it remains clear that Sesko is a highly talented player whose potential move to Manchester United could significantly impact the club’s future.
