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Manchester United have reached an agreement with Red Bull Leipzig to sign Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko in a deal valued at £73.7 million (€85 million).
The transfer package includes a guaranteed payment of £66.3 million (€76.5 million), with the remaining amount structured through performance-based add-ons. Sesko is expected to undergo his medical on Friday before officially joining United.
The 22-year-old forward has built an impressive reputation at Leipzig, where he has netted 39 goals in 87 appearances. Standing at 6ft 5in, Sesko offers a commanding physical presence up front and is known for his pace, aerial dominance, and sharp finishing. He has often drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland, not just for his attributes but also because both players began their European careers at Red Bull Salzburg.
Sesko's move comes as part of Manchester United's active summer in the transfer market. The club has already secured the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, spending around £130 million combined. These payments have been structured in a financially manageable way to allow for continued activity in the market.
Additionally, United have made space in their wage bill. Marcus Rashford's £325,000-per-week salary is being fully covered by Barcelona as part of his loan move. The club also received £5 million from Chelsea after the London side withdrew from a deal to sign Jadon Sancho.
Meanwhile, United have put Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho up for sale, with Chelsea reportedly interested. The club values him at £50 million. Last season's lead striker Rasmus Hojlund has also been made available for transfer. Despite high expectations, he scored just 14 Premier League goals over two seasons and is now priced at £40 million.
Sesko's decision to choose Old Trafford over other suitors is a setback for Newcastle United. The Magpies were also keen on the young striker and had earlier lost out on Hugo Ekitike, who joined Liverpool. Now, Newcastle face the risk of losing Alexander Isak as well, with Liverpool reportedly interested in the Swedish striker.
Since moving to Germany, Sesko has become the highest-scoring under-23 player in all competitions among those in Europe's top five leagues. His 39 goals put him just ahead of Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham and five ahead of Liverpool's new signing, Florian Wirtz.
