Manchester United have reportedly begun negotiations to sign Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.
According to The Athletic, Sesko is now at the top of United’s shortlist for forward reinforcements, with the club keen to act swiftly amid growing interest from Newcastle United.
The Magpies are said to be eyeing Sesko as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak, who is attracting serious interest from Liverpool.
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The Reds are rumoured to be preparing a British record-breaking offer of over £120 million ($159 million) for the Swedish forward.
The Red Devils have already secured the services of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo this summer, but Sesko remains a central focus for their recruitment team.
Among other names considered was Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but current reports from talkSPORT suggest that despite Ruben Amorim’s admiration for the England international, Villa have made it clear he is not available for transfer. “Nevertheless, manager Amorim would rather sign the Englishman,” the outlet reports.
Watkins, at 29, is seven years senior to Sesko and endured a less productive season, netting 17 times across all competitions, while the younger Slovenian managed 21 goals.
Sesko recently extended his contract with Leipzig, and it’s understood that an agreement was embedded in that deal allowing him to leave if a club meets an offer in the region of €80 million (£69 million/$92 million) to €90 million (£78 million/$103 million).
While Arsenal were previously deterred by the valuation, both Manchester United and Newcastle reportedly consider the fee within reach.
With the Premier League season fast approaching, United are keen to finalise a move for a new striker before their high-profile opening clash against Arsenal on August 17.
