Manchester United have secured a massive coup in the summer transfer market, reportedly agreeing a deal in principle to sign highly-rated RB Leipzig forward, Benjamin Šeško. The move is a significant blow to Newcastle, who had been in a fierce bidding war for the Slovenian international.
The deal, which is set to be a five-year contract for the 22-year-old striker, is understood to be worth an initial £66.3m (€76.5m), with an additional £7.37m (€8.5m) in performance-related add-ons.
Despite Newcastle tabling a higher, more substantial bid, Šeško’s clear preference for a move to Old Trafford was the decisive factor. United officials are said to be “delighted” with the outcome, having successfully avoided a bidding war and securing their top target for a lower upfront fee than their rivals’ improved offer.
Šeško arrived in the UK on Thursday night and is expected to undergo his medical within the next 24-48 hours.
The transfer has major ramifications for other clubs. Newcastle’s search for a striker is now back to square one, leaving their own star forward, Alexander Isak, in limbo. Newcastle are unlikely to sell Isak, a target for Liverpool, without a replacement lined up.
Meanwhile, the arrival of Šeško at Old Trafford casts a huge shadow over the future of Rasmus Højlund. While Højlund has been vocal about his desire to stay, United are reportedly open to offers for the Danish striker, with RB Leipzig and AC Milan showing strong interest. A loan deal has been mooted, but it remains to be seen what a potential transfer for Højlund would look like.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.