Benjamin Šeško Prefers Move to Manchester United Over Newcastle – A Strategic Decision That Could Shape His Career

Benjamin Šeško Prefers Move to Manchester United Over Newcastle – A Strategic Decision That Could Shape His Career

 

 

Benjamin Šeško, one of Europe’s brightest young strikers, has reportedly made his preference clear: he wants to join Manchester United over fellow Premier League suitors Newcastle United, according to reputable journalist Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) and transfer insider Dominik Schfer. This decision by the 21-year-old RB Leipzig forward has sent waves across the transfer market, with many now seeing United as favorites to secure his signature either this summer or in a pre-agreement deal ahead of 2026.

 

Šeško has long been viewed as one of the most promising No. 9s in Europe. After breaking onto the scene with Red Bull Salzburg and continuing his development at RB Leipzig, he has emerged as a powerful, clinical, and mobile striker capable of leading the line for a top European side. While several clubs across Europe have shown interest in him, his preference for Manchester United has added fuel to the ongoing rebuild at Old Trafford.

 

Why Šeško Prefers Manchester United

 

According to sources close to the player, Benjamin Šeško views Manchester United as a club with historic prestige, a global fanbase, and a tactical system that suits his playing style. Despite United’s struggles in recent seasons, they remain one of the most iconic football institutions in the world. The project under new co-owners Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, along with manager Erik ten Hag’s continued focus on youth and dynamic attacking play, have made United an attractive option for emerging talents like Šeško.

 

The Slovenian international reportedly believes he can grow into the club’s long-term No. 9, possibly overtaking or partnering with current striker Rasmus Højlund. With Anthony Martial gone and United lacking depth in central attack, Šeško sees an opportunity for consistent game time and a platform to showcase his talents in the Premier League and Europe.

 

Newcastle’s Attempt Falls Short

 

Newcastle United, backed by Saudi investment, have made significant progress over the past two seasons. They’ve secured Champions League qualification, built a strong spine in the squad, and are financially capable of making a compelling offer. However, Šeško is said to be unconvinced by their current standing in global football compared to Manchester United.

 

Though Newcastle promised regular first-team minutes and a central role in Eddie Howe’s setup, the 21-year-old has been more swayed by United’s ambition to return to the pinnacle of English and European football. Newcastle’s lack of trophy pedigree and the pressure of a long-term rebuild may have made the move less appealing to the ambitious forward.

 

What Šeško Would Bring to Manchester United

 

Šeško possesses a rare combination of height (6’5″), pace, physicality, and technical finesse. He has been compared to the likes of Erling Haaland—not just because of his physical profile, but also due to his smart movement and finishing instinct. In the Bundesliga, he managed to score 18 goals in all competitions last season, despite often playing second fiddle to more experienced forwards.

 

His goals per minute ratio is one of the best among young forwards in Europe, and his ability to press high, win aerial duels, and stretch defenses makes him a perfect fit for Ten Hag’s transitional attacking style. Alongside Højlund, he could form one of the most fearsome young strike partnerships in Europe—or offer healthy competition for the No. 9 role, which would be essential for squad depth.

 

The Transfer Fee and United’s Strategy

 

Manchester United would likely need to pay between £55 million and £65 million to convince Leipzig to part with their star early, but there is also talk of triggering a release clause next summer, rumored to be around £50 million. United may opt to reach a pre-agreement, similar to the strategy they used in the past with players like Amad Diallo and Facundo Pellistri.

 

The club is under pressure to make smarter, long-term investments under the new Ineos football structure. Šeško fits the profile of a “smart buy”: young, elite potential, resale value, and high upside. With other clubs monitoring him—including Arsenal and Chelsea—it makes sense for United to move swiftly before a full bidding war erupts.

 

The Erik ten Hag Factor

 

It’s also worth noting that Šeško has admired Erik ten Hag’s work from his Ajax days, particularly the way he developed young attackers and built cohesive, fast-paced teams. Ten Hag’s direct involvement in talks with the striker’s representatives has reportedly been a key influence in swaying the decision.

 

The Dutch manager is known for his attention to detail and his ability to nurture young players into world-class stars—whether it’s Antony at Ajax, or Garnacho and Mainoo at United. Šeško believes that under Ten Hag, he can develop into one of the most feared strikers in Europe.

 

What This Means for United’s Summer Plans

 

Securing Šeško would represent a massive coup for Manchester United, especially considering the fierce competition and the current lack of clarity around their financial muscle under FFP rules. It also hints at a clear long-term vision: rather than chasing aging stars or overpriced big names, United want to build a team with future sustainability.

 

The club is currently looking to offload fringe players like Jadon Sancho, Donny van de Beek, and Scott McTominay to create room in the wage bill and raise transfer funds. If a deal for Šeško is completed, it may alter United’s approach in the striker market, possibly shelving interest in older, more expensive options like Victor Osimhen or Ivan Toney.

 

Šeško’s Journey So Far

 

Benjamin Šeško started his professional journey at NK Domžale before moving to Red Bull Salzburg, where he showcased his elite instincts and caught the attention of top European scouts. At just 21, he’s already a full international for Slovenia, having scored several important goals in Euro qualifiers and Nations League matches.

 

After moving to RB Leipzig in 2023, he needed time to adapt but ended the season with a strong run of form—demonstrating that he can handle pressure and continue developing in top-level football. His next move will be crucial, and by choosing United, he’s signaling a desire to challenge himself at the highest level.

 

Conclusion

 

Benjamin Šeško’s preference for Manchester United over Newcastle is a sign of ambition, strategy, and belief in a long-term project. For United, landing Šeško could be a transformative move—bringing in a physically dominant and technically gifted striker who could lead the line for years to come.

 

As the Red Devils look to rebuild their empire under Ineos and Erik ten Hag, Šeško might just be the jewel in the crown—a signing that signifies both a return to elite recruitment and a glimpse into a bright, youthful future at Old Trafford.

 

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