Benjamin Sesko Deal Heats Up: Manchester United’s Striker Dilemma Deepens

• by Arlen Fitzpatrick
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United’s Bold Play for Benjamin Sesko

It’s no secret Manchester United have been hunting for firepower up front, and their latest target is Benjamin Sesko, the rising Slovenian star making waves at RB Leipzig. Talks have started, and the price tag is sky-high—anywhere between €80 million and €90 million. Not exactly pocket change, especially for a club under pressure to get back to winning ways after a series of underwhelming campaigns.

United are looking for a striker who fits their vision of the future, and Sesko ticks a lot of boxes. He’s only 22, but already he’s managed to rack up 27 Bundesliga goals in just two seasons, showing not only a sharp eye for goal but also the cool temperament needed at the top level. While Leipzig’s Champions League journey didn’t go far this season, Sesko stood out as one of their most reliable finishers.

But this isn’t just about adding another name to the squad. The looming arrival of Sesko has put the spotlight on Rasmus Højlund, United’s young Danish striker. Højlund landed at Old Trafford with plenty of hype after impressing at Atalanta, but he’s struggled to find his rhythm in the Premier League. While he’s shown glimpses of talent, he hasn’t exactly set the world alight. Now, with reports that Italian giants Napoli and Juventus are sniffing around, there’s real uncertainty over his future at United.

What Happens to Rasmus Højlund?

Here’s where it gets awkward. Imagine being Højlund—just arrived last summer, hoping to be the main man, only to see the club chase another striker for an eye-watering sum. That’s enough to rattle anyone. If Sesko does join United, there could be some uncomfortable moments: two ambitious young strikers, both wanting minutes, both expected to deliver. Nobody signs for that kind of money just to sit on the bench. Højlund, still early in his career, could see his role shrink just as he’s trying to make his mark.

People inside United believe Sesko’s profile fits perfectly into the squad, thanks to input from recruitment chief Christopher Vivell, who knows the Red Bull system inside out. But the club hasn’t put all their eggs in one basket. Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is also under consideration. He’s a proven Premier League scorer and would cost less, making him a tempting backup plan if the Sesko deal gets too messy or expensive.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United are watching closely but aren’t as far along as United. Sesko’s camp reportedly prefers to stay in Europe, which has put a stop to any crazy bids from Saudi clubs, keeping the battle firmly among Europe’s top teams.

For United fans, the promise of a fresh attacking option is exciting, but it also means another shake-up is on the horizon. Benjamin Sesko could be the missing piece up front—but figuring out where everyone fits could lead to some tough choices and serious locker room drama.