Manchester United Seal £73.7m Deal for Leipzig Striker Benjamin Sesko

Manchester United have confirmed the signing of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig in a transfer worth £73.7 million, Sport360NG reports.

The Slovenia international has agreed a five-year contract at Old Trafford, with United paying £66.3m upfront and the remainder in performance-related add-ons.

Sesko, 22, becomes the club’s third major attacking acquisition this summer, following the arrivals of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5m and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford in a £65m deal that could rise by a further £6m. Newcastle United were also keen on the striker, but he opted to join Ruben Amorim’s squad.

Last season, United endured a difficult campaign, finishing 15th in the Premier League, while Newcastle secured fifth place, a Champions League spot, and lifted the EFL Cup.

“The history of Manchester United is obviously very special, but what really excites me is the future,” Sesko said. “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 soon.

“From the moment I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment here. It’s the perfect place to reach my maximum level and achieve all my ambitions. I can’t wait to work with Ruben and build connections with my team-mates to bring success to the club.”

Proven Record in Germany

Sesko joined Leipzig in 2023 from Red Bull Salzburg and has since scored 39 goals and provided eight assists in 87 appearances across all competitions, including 27 goals in 64 Bundesliga matches.

He ended last season as the highest-scoring player under the age of 23 across Europe’s top five leagues, edging Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham by one goal and finishing five ahead of Liverpool’s £100m summer signing Florian Wirtz.

Renowned for his pace, clocking a top speed of 35.7 km/h, and his aerial dominance thanks to his 6ft 5in frame, Sesko won 57.4% of his aerial duels, the best rate among Bundesliga strikers. He is also a long-range threat, with over a third of his shots and nearly a quarter of his goals last season coming from outside the box.

Manchester United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, described him as “one of the most exceptional young talents in world football.” He added: “Benjamin combines electrifying pace with the ability to physically dominate defenders. Our analysis showed he has both the qualities and personality to thrive here. Under Ruben’s guidance, he is in the perfect environment to fulfil his world-class potential.”

Uncertain Future for Hojlund

Sesko’s arrival could spell the end of Rasmus Hojlund’s time at United. The Danish striker, 22, has publicly expressed a desire to stay despite increased competition for his place. However, the club are open to selling him for around £30m. AC Milan are interested and would prefer to take him on loan initially.

Hojlund has scored 14 league goals in two seasons since his £72m move from Atalanta.