Record-breaking second-highest sale for a right back player:
Manchester United has bolstered its attacking line with the acquisition of 22-year-old Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig in a deal worth around €85 million, including performance-related add-ons. The transfer, which concludes a competitive battle against Newcastle United, involves a five-year contract until June 2030 and includes a sell-on clause for RB Leipzig, as well as a future friendly match between the teams.
Sesko, who joined RB Leipzig from RB Salzburg in 2023 for around €24 million, had an impressive record at the German club, scoring 21 goals in 45 appearances last season and being Europe’s top scorer under 23 across the top five leagues over the past two seasons.
Newcastle United, who will play in the Champions League next season, presented a higher initial bid of about €82.5 million plus fewer add-ons, but Sesko's clear preference for Manchester United influenced Leipzig's decision to accept a slightly lower guaranteed fee but higher total package from United. Manchester United's officials valued Sesko's strong desire to join their club, highlighting it as a factor in finalizing the deal.
Sesko's arrival at Manchester United follows the signings of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, pushing the club's summer spending beyond £200 million. Sesko is often compared to striker star Erling Haaland, and Manchester United sees him as a key part of Ruben Amorim’s new attacking setup.
The transfer fee of €85 million makes Sesko the second most expensive sale in RB Leipzig's history, surpassed only by Josko Gvardiol who was sold to Manchester City for a reported €91.5 million. The sporting director of RB Leipzig, Marcel Schaefer, stated that the economic conditions played a role in the transfer. The total transfer fee for Sesko could potentially increase to €90 million with additional performances.
Both clubs announced the transfer of Sesko to Manchester United in the Premier League, marking a significant move in the English top-flight. Newcastle United, despite their more lucrative bid, were unable to secure the transfer due to Sesko's preference for Manchester United. With Sesko's impressive goal-scoring record and the club's financial investment, Manchester United fans are eager to see what impact the young striker will have on the team.
- The acquisition of 22-year-old Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig by Manchester United, worth around €85 million, is a substantial investment in the football industry and business world.
- Sesko's signing to Manchester United, following the acquisitions of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, reflects a strategic approach towards reinforcing the team's attacking line in the European leagues and English Premier League.
- The sports director of RB Leipzig, Marcel Schaefer, acknowledged the role of economic conditions in the transfer of Sesko, who is often compared to striker star Erling Haaland, to Manchester United.
- Newcastle United, despite presenting a higher initial bid for Sesko, was unable to compete with Manchester United due to Sesko's clear preference, indicating a significant shift in the power dynamics of the football transfer market.
