Manchester United Secure Signing Of Slovenian Star Benjamin Sesko In £73.7m Deal.
Manchester United have announced the blockbuster signing of RB Leipzig’s highly-rated striker Benjamin Sesko, marking a significant coup for the Red Devils as they continue their attacking overhaul under manager Ruben Amorim. The 22-year-old Slovenian international has signed a five-year contract until June 2030, with the transfer valued at an initial £66.3 million (€76.5 million) plus up to £7.4 million (€8.5 million) in performance-related add-ons.
Sesko, who has been compared to Zlatan Ibrahimovic for his towering 6’5” frame and technical flair, joins United after a prolific spell at Leipzig, where he scored 21 goals and provided six assists in all competitions last season. Over the past two seasons, the young forward has netted more goals than any other player under 23 in Europe’s top five leagues, cementing his reputation as one of world football’s brightest talents.
The transfer saga saw Manchester United fend off strong competition from Newcastle United, who had tabled two bids, including an improved offer of £69.7 million plus add-ons. However, Sesko’s preference for Old Trafford, coupled with United’s swift negotiations led by director of football Jason Wilcox, director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, and chief negotiator Matt Hargreaves, sealed the deal.
In his first interview as a United player, Sesko expressed his excitement about the move, stating, “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 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.”
Sesko’s arrival is the latest piece in United’s ambitious attacking rebuild, following the signings of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo for £65 million (potentially rising to £71 million). With United’s attack struggling last season—scoring just 44 league goals and finishing 15th in the Premier League—the additions of Sesko, Cunha, and Mbeumo signal a clear intent to restore the club’s firepower.
Director of football Jason Wilcox hailed Sesko’s potential, saying, “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.”
Sesko, who has already been capped 41 times for Slovenia and scored 16 international goals, will be formally presented to United fans ahead of the club’s final pre-season friendly against Fiorentina today. His aerial prowess, quick feet, and clinical finishing are expected to make an immediate impact as United aim to rebound from their worst Premier League campaign in 51 years.
The signing pushes United’s summer spending past £200 million, but the club may need to balance the books by offloading players such as Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, or Antony. Despite the hefty investment, Sesko’s desire to join United, even without Champions League football, underscores the enduring allure of the club and Amorim’s vision for a new era at Old Trafford.
As fans eagerly await Sesko’s Premier League debut, the Slovenian’s arrival has sparked optimism that United can rediscover their attacking edge and challenge for major honors in the 2025/26 season. With a potent new-look frontline and Amorim’s tactical acumen, the stage is set for Sesko to become a cornerstone of Manchester United’s revival.
