Latest Manchester United transfer news as Ruben Amorim closes in on a move for Benjamin Sesko
Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig is a top target for Manchester United(Image: Photo by Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Benjamin Sesko in a move which will would see Ruben Amorim’s side inflict fresh transfer misery on Newcasle United. Should a deal be completed for the 22-year-old, it could set up an awkward encounter with Arsenal, who were locked into lengthy talks with RB Leipzig before turning their attention to Viktor Gyokeres.
As it stands, United have bid €75million (£65.3m) plus €10m (£8.7m) in add-ons but the offer falls short of RB Leipzig’s valuation. Newcastle improved their bid to table a higher package to the Bundesliga outfit, however his preference is to move to the North West over the North East.
The move for Sesko marks the latest push for reinforcements in attacking areas as Amorim targets strengthening his strike force, in the form of the frontman who has been a longstanding target at Old Trafford.
United will need to negotiate with the German club in order to strike an agreement but they face a race against time to register Sesko to play in their Premier League opener.
Amorim could not have wished for a tougher top-flight curtain-raiser when they welcome Arsenal to Old Trafford on August 17. Mikel Arteta’s side will have ambitions of their own for a strong start as they look to finally end their wait to return to the summit of English football.
But the arrival of Sesko could pose an awkward encounter for Arsenal, who previously prioritised the signing of the Slovenian before they opted for the Sporting CP hotshot.
It appeared earlier in the summer that Sesko was Arteta’s primary target after the Gunners pursued the forward for over 12 months.
However, reports suggested that the north London club became frustrated by Leipzig’s refusal to budge from their €90million (£78m) valuation while the personal terms appeared to be far from straightforward.
Arsenal left the table and diverted their attention to Gyokeres, who joined for an initial £55million.
In United’s case regarding Sesko, they will have to haggle with Leipzig and possibly match Newcastle’s bid which was reportedly in the region of €80million (£69.7m). Though, it’s reported that personal terms are not an issue.
But should they complete a move, he could line up alongside his new United teammates against opponents that he could have shared a dressing room with, if Leipzig accepted Arsenal’s advances.
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