Manchester United will likely pursue a new striker during the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils have had a difficult Premier League campaign. They have picked up only 38 points after 32 games.
Manager Ruben Amorim will want summer signings, and Sport Bild (page 34) cite that United are keen on Benjamin Sesko.
The German publication claim that ‘United want the striker’, who could cost as much as £86 million this summer.
Sesko has a gentleman’s agreement to leave for £60m, but the figure is ‘freely negotiable’ in case of more interest.
With Liverpool, Arsenal and Chelsea also in the mix, Leipzig believe they could receive up to £86m for his services.
United are doing their own groundwork. Director of recruitment Christopher Vivell was in the stands for Leipzig’s 3-2 Bundesliga win at Wolfsburg.
Vivell has a close relationship with Sesko. He signed the striker for Red Bull Salzburg as a 16-year-old before bringing him to Leipzig in 2023.
United need Champions League football to land Sesko
The Red Devils have had a tough time upfront, with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee misfiring.
The duo have netted only six goals in the Premier League. United clearly need an upgrade for next season.
Sesko would be a superb acquisition. The 21-year-old is one of the best upcoming strikers in European football.
He has amassed 19 goals and provided six assists (25 goal contributions) for Leipzig during the ongoing campaign.
Leipzig are prepared to let him go for £60m, but the figure could be higher if there is a bidding war for his services.
In our view, United may struggle to persuade him to join them without Champions League football.
The club must win the Europa League to qualify for the elite competition, which would guarantee up to £100m in extra revenue next term.
If United fail to do so, they may consider a cost-effective alternative such as Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.
Delap can be signed for just £30m if the Tractor Boys are relegated from the top-flight this season.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
