Recorded Breaking Running Back Transaction Ranks Second in Cost:
Manchester United Secures Benjamin Sesko for €85 Million
Manchester United has announced the signing of Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig on a five-year contract until June 2030. The transfer fee is reported to be around €85 million (approximately $98.8 million), which includes performance-based add-ons and a sell-on clause entitling Leipzig to a percentage of any future transfer fee.
Sesko, aged 22, scored 21 goals and provided 6 assists for Leipzig last season, making him the highest-scoring player under 23 in Europe's top five leagues over the past two seasons. His performances, combined with his pace and physicality, have been highly praised by Manchester United's director of football, Jason Wilcox.
The transfer of Sesko from Leipzig to Manchester United marks a move from the Bundesliga to the Premier League, and it is one of United's major summer signings, bringing overall spending past £200 million. This deal is the second most expensive sale by RB Leipzig, surpassed only by the sale of Josko Gvardiol to Manchester City for a reported €91.5 million.
Sesko's transfer was the subject of a bidding war between Manchester United and Newcastle United, with the former eventually securing the young striker's services. RB Leipzig's sports director, Marcel Schafer, stated that economic conditions played a role in the transfer.
The deal includes performance incentives, with Leipzig considering achievable add-ons, though the exact figures or criteria for these bonuses have not been publicly detailed. Additionally, the agreement contains a sell-on clause. No further specifics on the nature or amounts of bonuses were disclosed in the available information.
Sesko made his debut for RB Leipzig in 2023, joining the team from RB Salzburg. He has been successful in the Champions League and the DFB-Pokal for Leipzig, scoring 6 times in these competitions. Manchester United expects him to be a key player in the new attacking setup under manager Ruben Amorim, with Amorim stating that Sesko is ready to make his debut and sees the striker as a long-term option for the team.
With Sesko's transfer, Manchester United will play internationally next season, potentially in the Champions League. The total amount paid for Sesko's transfer could potentially increase to €90 million with the agreed-upon additional performances.
Sesko's impressive performance in football, specifically in the sport of football for Leipzig, led Manchester United to engage in a bidding war with Newcastle United over his services. Securing a spot in the attacking setup under manager Ruben Amorim, Sesko's presence is expected to bolster Manchester United's chances in the Champions League next season.
