Benjamin Sesko Set to Choose Manchester United Over Newcastle

RB Leipzig’s star forward Benjamin Sesko looks set to become the latest addition to Manchester United’s attack, as the 22-year-old Slovenian international edges closer to a move to Old Trafford, despite a larger financial package from Newcastle United.

Both Manchester United and Newcastle have submitted formal bids that meet Leipzig’s €75 million valuation for the highly sought-after striker. According to sources close to the negotiations, Newcastle’s proposal is slightly higher, totaling around €80–85 million with add-ons, compared to United’s bid of approximately £65 million plus £8.9 million in add-ons (roughly €75 million plus €10 million).

Despite Newcastle’s greater financial overtures and the lure of Champions League football, Sesko has made his preference clear: he wants to join Manchester United. This stance is well understood throughout the negotiations, with all parties—including RB Leipzig—accepting the striker’s wish as decisive in the final stages of talks.

Sesko’s imminent departure has already begun to take shape. The forward was absent from Leipzig’s recent pre-season fixture and has reportedly informed teammates of his likely exit, indicating that a transfer announcement could be close. With both Premier League clubs’ offers on the table and acceptable to Leipzig, the final decision appears to rest firmly with the player himself.

Manchester United’s interest in Sesko comes amid broader ambitions to strengthen Erik ten Hag’s squad, while Newcastle, who had hoped their lucrative proposal and Champions League status would prevail, may now be forced to turn their attention to alternative targets. The outcome of the deal could also have knock-on effects in the market, with United’s pursuit of Sesko raising questions over the future of Rasmus Hojlund, and Newcastle revisiting options regarding Alexander Isak.

Industry sources—including Sky Sports, ESPN, The Athletic, and BBC—confirm that United’s historic prestige and brand remain a powerful attraction for top-level talent, often outweighing competing offers based solely on salary or sporting guarantees.

RB Leipzig is expected to reach a final agreement with Manchester United imminently, bringing one of the summer’s most watched transfer sagas to a close, and making Benjamin Sesko the latest star to don the iconic red shirt.

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