Manchester United Secures Benjamin Sesko in €85M Deal

Key Takeaways

• Manchester United have agreed a €85 million deal with RB Leipzig for striker Benjamin Sesko, consisting of €76.5 million upfront plus €8.5 million in add-ons
• The 22-year-old Slovenia international chose United over Newcastle United despite both clubs making competitive bids
• The signing completes United's attacking overhaul with total forward spending exceeding £200 million this summer
• Sesko scored 21 goals in 45 appearances for Leipzig last season and has established himself as one of Europe's most promising young strikers

Analysis

Benjamin Sesko represents one of the most significant striker signings in recent transfer windows. The 6'5" Slovenia international has drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland due to his combination of pace, physicality, and clinical finishing ability. At just 22 years old, Sesko has already accumulated impressive statistics, scoring 39 goals in 87 appearances across two seasons with Leipzig.

United's acquisition addresses their most pressing need following a disappointing campaign where they scored just 44 goals in 38 Premier League matches - fewer than all but four other teams. The club finished 15th in their worst league campaign in 51 years, making striker reinforcement essential for manager Ruben Amorim's tactical system.

Sesko's development trajectory has been carefully managed through the Red Bull system, progressing from Salzburg's reserve team to becoming Leipzig's leading scorer. His 100% penalty conversion rate and 0.49 goals per 90 minutes demonstrate the clinical edge United have been seeking. His international pedigree is equally impressive - he became Slovenia's youngest ever goalscorer and helped the nation qualify for Euro 2024, their first European Championship since 2000.