Man Utd now weighing up move to sign £86m striker with 27 G/A last season - Ben Jacobs

Manchester United have identified RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko as one of the options to bolster the centre-forward department, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Red Devils were interested in signing Liam Delap from Ipswich Town earlier this summer, but the Englishman chose to join Chelsea instead.

Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike was recently mentioned as a target, but arch-rivals Liverpool have now won the race to recruit the French striker.

Jacobs now reports that Sesko is back on United’s radar as a number nine option. The club made an approach last year before the Slovenian chose to stay at Leipzig.

Nicolas Jackson and Ollie Watkins are among other names discussed. The Red Devils are also shortlisting several targets as finding a new striker is the ‘next priority’.

Sesko would be a statement signing for United

The 22-year-old was a top target for Premier League rivals Arsenal earlier this summer, but they pulled out of the race due to a disagreement over the payment package.

The Gunners have turned their attention to pursuing a deal for Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres. Talks are advancing, and the Swede could join the London outfit this week.

United now have an opportunity to pursue a deal for Sesko, but it could largely depend on whether the club can secure a large portion of the funds from player sales this summer.

The Red Devils have opted to loan out Marcus Rashford to Barcelona with an option to buy. As part of the deal, they are expected to save his £15.6 million annual wages next season.

Jadon Sancho could be on his way to Juventus soon. A full agreement has been reached on a contract package, and the Bianconeri are prepared to meet United’s £21m price tag.

United may require some more departures before they can purchase Sesko. Alejandro Garnacho and Antony could depart soon. Rasmus Hojlund may opt for a new challenge if a marquee striker is signed.

Sesko would be a statement signing for the Red Devils. The Slovenian had a solid 2024/25 campaign at Leipzig, scoring 21 goals and providing another six assists across all competitions.

He generally played in a front two at the Bundesliga outfit with Lois Openda operating ahead of him. At Old Trafford, he could shine with the entire striker responsibilities on himself.

Sesko scored once in every five shots in the German top flight last term. At 22, he has yet to hit the prime of his career and would be a superb acquisition due to his immense potential.

The striker can comfortably link up and hold up play. He has a strong aerial presence in the box and can score with either foot. His ball striking ability from long range is another plus.

It remains to be seen whether United can prise him away from Leipzig. The German outfit want a hefty £86 million to sanction his sale and may not negotiate on the valuation.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com, Capology.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .