Manchester United have confirmed the signing of RB Leipzig forward Benjamin Sesko, officially beating transfer rivals Newcastle United to his signature.
Sesko, 22, has been the subject of one of this summer’s hottest transfer sagas, after the Slovenian emerged a primary target for both the Red Devils and Magpies just weeks before season.
Newcastle initially tabled a bid worth €75million (£65m) plus €5m (£4.3m) in add-ons, which Leipzig rejected, before later returning with a base offer of €80m (£70m) excluding bonuses.
It prompted Manchester United to table a bid of their own within 24 hours, worth €75m (£65m) plus an additional €10m (£8.7m). Finally, Newcastle fired another offer of €82.5m (£72m) plus €2.5m (£2.1m) to the German club, which was accepted.
After Sesko made clear to both clubs his intention to sign for Manchester United, Old Trafford’s hierarchy were able to accelerate final negotiations with Leipzig and strike an agreement.
Sesko joins £62.5m Matheus Cunha and £71m Bryan Mbeumo through the Old Trafford doors this summer, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos identifying Ruben Amorim’s forward line as a key area of focus in terms of recruitment.
Manchester United have completed the signing of forward Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig
The Slovenian made clear his intentions to join Ruben Amorim’s side over Newcastle United
Missing out on Sesko leaves Newcastle in a troublesome position ahead of the new season
United said as they announced the forward: ‘Manchester United is pleased to confirm that Benjamin Sesko has joined the club, subject to registration. The Slovenia international has signed a contract until June 2030.’
Sesko himself added: ‘The history of Manchester United is obviously very special but what really excites me is the future. When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon.
‘From the moment that I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment that the club has created. It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions.
‘I cannot wait to start learning from Ruben and connecting with my team-mates to achieve the success that we all know we are capable of together.’
Jason Wilcox, Director of Football, said: ‘Benjamin possesses a rare combination of electrifying pace and the ability to physically dominate defenders, making him one of the most exceptional young talents in world football.
‘We have followed Benjamin’s career closely; all of our data analysis and research concluded that he has the required qualities and personality to thrive at Manchester United.
‘Working under the guidance of Ruben and our excellent performance team, Benjamin is joining the perfect environment to support him to reach his world- class potential.
‘The desire that all of our new signings have shown to join the club this summer highlights the appeal and stature of Manchester United as we continue to build and develop a team capable of challenging for the biggest honours.’
Bryan Mbeumo (left) and Matheus Cunha (right) also joined the Red Devils earlier this summer
Sesko’s move could significantly dent Alexander Isak’s hopes of joining Liverpool, as Newcastle have now missed out on their No 1 target to replace the Magpies wantaway
Sesko, who played for Leipzig for two years, waves goodbye to his former team on social media, writing: ‘Thank you, RB Leipzig. I arrived as a kid, and I leave with beautiful memories of this club forever.
‘From day one, you welcomed me like family. I’ve grown, learned, and live unforgettable moments here.
‘To the fans, your love and support have meant more than words can say. This club will always hold a special place in my heart. Forever grateful.’
Meanwhile, missing out on Sesko leaves Newcastle in a troublesome position just days ahead of the new Premier League season, with star striker Alexander Isak’s future still up in the air amid interest from Liverpool.
The Swede, who dropped a bombshell transfer request on Newcastle earlier this summer, missed the Magpies’ preseason tour to train individually with former club Real Sociedad before returning to St James’ Park days later.
The Premier League champions had a £110m formal bid rejected by Newcastle last Friday – and Daily Mail Sport understands they will now return to the table following the completion of Sesko’s move to Old Trafford.
The transfer could significantly dent Liverpool’s hopes of landing Isak given that the Magpies have now missed out on their primary target to replace him.
Manchester United played out a 2-2 draw with Everton on Sunday as they continued their preparations heading into the new season.
Carlos Baleba (right) is reportedly the next star on Man United’s radar after signing Sesko
The Toffees equalised twice in the friendly after Bruno Fernandes opened the scoring with a penalty and Mason Mount netted Man United’s second in the 69th minute.
Amorim opted to shape up in a 3-5-2 formation with Cunha and Mbeumo leading the line in attack, supported by captain Fernandes behind them.
With Sesko now joining the Red Devils as an out-and-out striker, Mbeumo and Cunha are likely to drop deeper into the No 10 positions with Fernandes occupying a deeper role in the midfield.
Meanwhile, according to The Athletic, the Red Devils have also made contact with Brighton to explore the conditions of a deal for defensive midfielder Carlos Baleba.
The 21-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign for the Seagulls, featuring 34 times in the Premier League and scoring three goals for Fabian Hurzeler’s side.
However, despite displaying their interest in Seagulls star, there is an acknowledgement that a switch this summer may be unrealistic, given Brighton’s unwillingness to sell and United’s outlay in this window.
