Benjamin Sesko Transfer Saga: Manchester United vs. Newcastle United
As the new season approaches, the future of Benjamin Sesko remains uncertain, with both Manchester United and Newcastle United vying for the £70 million-rated striker from RB Leipzig. However, Newcastle is currently the only club to have made an official bid.
According to German newspaper Bild, Sesko has indicated that both clubs are his preferred choices. Nevertheless, there are advantages and disadvantages for each team regarding their ability to secure his signature and the potential for playing time.
One thing is clear: the powerful and agile Slovenian forward could significantly impact whichever team he joins. BBC Sport has explored his options.
Should He Join Manchester United?
Have They Made a Bid? Can They?
Manchester United has yet to submit a formal offer for Sesko, although they have expressed interest in the striker. According to BBC reporter Simon Stone, "Manchester United's interest in Benjamin Sesko is genuine, but they appear to want to ensure that the Slovenian is keen on joining them before negotiating a deal with RB Leipzig." This approach mirrors their previous negotiations with Brentford regarding Bryan Mbeumo.
Sources at Old Trafford have stated that while they do not need to sell players to fund new signings, they acknowledge that revenue will need to be generated from the sale of several players not in manager Ruben Amorim's plans.
Why Would Sesko Want to Join Them?
Joining Manchester United would likely guarantee Sesko a starting position at one of the world's most prestigious clubs. In contrast to Rasmus Hojlund, who has scored only 14 Premier League goals in two seasons since his £64 million transfer from Atalanta, Sesko has netted 27 Bundesliga goals since moving to Leipzig from Salzburg.
Despite some observers suggesting that funds would be better allocated towards a dynamic central midfielder, Amorim has expressed concerns about his team's goal-scoring capabilities, indicating a need for improvement at the forward position. Consequently, United may be open to offers for Hojlund, which could factor into negotiations with Leipzig.
If Sesko joins, he could form a new attacking trio alongside Matheus Cunha and Mbeumo, with a combined cost of around £130 million this summer. With Bruno Fernandes leading the league in created chances last season, Sesko would receive ample service from his teammates.
Why Might Sesko Not Want to Join Them?
Several factors could deter Sesko from choosing Old Trafford as his next destination. Firstly, the club is not participating in any European competition this season, a significant consideration for a player who has enjoyed Champions League football in three of the last four seasons.
Additionally, United finished 15th last season, marking their worst performance since their relegation in 1974. With Amorim tasked with rebuilding the team, a poor start could also lead to managerial changes. Furthermore, there is a strong argument that Bruno Fernandes is the only successful signing the club has made since 2016.
Should He Join Newcastle United?
Have They Made a Bid? Can They?
Newcastle United has submitted an offer of approximately £70 million for Sesko and continues to engage in discussions with Leipzig. They are interested in acquiring him even if star striker Alexander Isak remains, having previously sought to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
While Ekitike joined Liverpool, who have made a £110 million bid for Isak, Newcastle remains determined to bolster their attacking options.
Why Would Sesko Want to Join Them?
Joining Newcastle would allow Sesko to return to the Champions League, as the Magpies finished fifth last season. He would be part of a club on the rise, having recently ended a 56-year trophy drought by winning the Carabao Cup.
Having played alongside Lois Openda in a two-striker setup at Leipzig, Sesko would likely enjoy the opportunity to partner with Isak, should he stay. Additionally, Newcastle's top assist providers from last season, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Elanga, would provide him with numerous goal-scoring opportunities.
Why Might Sesko Not Want to Join Them?
The fate of Isak could create uncertainty for Sesko. If Isak departs, Sesko may secure a guaranteed starting position; however, he might question the club's ambition following the loss of a key player. Conversely, if Isak remains, Sesko could face competition for playing time, especially if manager Eddie Howe opts against a dual-striker formation.
Moreover, while playing in the Champions League is appealing, he would be joining a team that has not consistently qualified for the tournament, with their history indicating a lack of success in reaching the knockout stages.
Should He Stay at Leipzig?
Could Leipzig Still Keep Him?
Leipzig is under no obligation to sell Sesko, which justifies their high asking price and desire for additional add-ons. The club is undergoing a summer rebuild under new head coach Ole Werner, having made six signings for a combined £80 million, but they have yet to make a significant sale to generate funds.
However, Chelsea is reportedly pursuing Leipzig's attacking midfielder Xavi Simons in a potentially lucrative transfer.
Why Would Sesko Want to Stay?
Sesko may be inclined to remain at Leipzig for a third season, where he can continue to play regularly and aim to improve on his previous season's performance. Staying could also present the opportunity to attract interest from established Champions League clubs in the future, especially considering the aging forwards at top clubs like Bayern Munich and Barcelona. Next season, they may begin searching for younger talent, and Sesko has previously been linked with both clubs.