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Manchester United reach ‘agreement in principle’ with RB Leipzig over €85m transfer for Slovenia striker Benjamin Sesko
Manchester United have sealed a major transfer coup by securing a deal in principle to sign RB Leipzig’s star striker, Benjamin Sesko, in a move valued at €85 million (£73.7m/$100m).
The Slovenia international was reportedly a top target for Premier League rivals Newcastle United, but he has opted to make Old Trafford his new home.
According to The Athletic, both clubs had agreed on transfer terms with Leipzig, but United succeeded in convincing the 21-year-old to join their project.
Per the report, the deal is structured around a €76.5 million fixed fee with a further €8.5 million in performance-based add-ons.
Although Newcastle had tabled a competitive bid that Leipzig accepted, their inability to win over Sesko gave Manchester United the upper hand. The striker is now scheduled to undergo medical examinations in the coming days, after which the Red Devils are expected to make an official announcement.
Sesko’s move marks the latest addition to United’s aggressive summer overhaul. He joins the likes of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo as part of manager Ruben Amorim’s efforts to revitalise the team following a disappointing 2024/25 campaign.
Despite Newcastle’s early advances and a higher financial offer, Sesko was not convinced by the Magpies’ sporting project under Eddie Howe. This left the door wide open for Manchester United to swoop in with a lower fee and a more appealing proposition for the young attacker.
The club’s recruitment drive is also expected to include a clear-out of fringe players. Wingers Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony have all been tipped for summer exits as United aim to balance their books and streamline the squad.
With a formal unveiling looming, United fans will be hopeful that Sesko brings firepower and consistency to a frontline in need of a reliable goal-scorer.