Fabrizio Romano Reveals Chances of Man Utd Signing Benjamin Sesko after Newcastle Bid

Fabrizio Romano Reveals Chances of Man Utd Signing Benjamin Sesko after Newcastle Bid

 

 

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has offered fresh insight into Manchester United’s pursuit of RB Leipzig young sensation Benjamin Šeško, following a high-profile bid from Newcastle United. With the 2025 summer transfer window now in its final stretch, Romano’s updates shed light on where United stand—and whether they can still reel in the Slovenian forward amid stiff competition.

 

 

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🔍 Sesko’s Situation: A Player in Demand

 

Benjamin Šeško, aged 22, has become one of Europe’s hottest young strikers after a breakthrough campaign at RB Leipzig. He scored 18 league goals and added two assists across 42 matches in the 2023–24 season, fueling interest from top Premier League clubs. Crucially, a release clause around €65 million (£55 million) allowed Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea to make legitimate offers. However, Sesko chose to remain at Leipzig, signing a new contract that reportedly runs until 2029 with improved pay and a future release agreement for summer 2025.

 

 

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🚨 Newcastle’s Club‑Record Bid

 

Newcastle United made a firm move this month, submitting what is widely reported as a club-record bid of £70 million (initial £65.5m plus £4–5m in add‑ons) to RB Leipzig. That bid aligns with Leipzig’s demands, including a sell‑on clause—something Newcastle are prepared to include.ϟ

 

Leipzig have rejected the offer—apparently holding out for a fully guaranteed fee plus add‑ons and the sell‑on clause. Meanwhile, the absence of Sesko from Leipzig’s recent preseason match and reporting that Newcastle are “ready to pay what the player wants” strongly suggest that a deal could happen imminently.

 

 

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🟥 Man Utd’s Status: Still in the Race

 

Despite Newcastle’s financial muscle, Romano confirms Manchester United have not yet pulled out from the race to sign Sesko. United have initiated direct contact with both Leipzig and Sesko’s camp, working through the player’s vision, contract terms, and long-term plan.

 

Romano emphasizes a key difference in United’s approach: rather than simply trying to match Newcastle’s financial offer, United are focused on convincing the player himself—highlighting that the club values his commitment, project, and ambition.

 

 

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🤝 The “Gentleman’s Agreement”

 

Earlier this summer, Sesko agreed a new deal with Leipzig that reportedly includes a gentleman’s agreement—stipulating that if a “special club” comes forward with an offer in the €70–80 million range, Leipzig will allow the release to proceed. Manchester United is reportedly included in that select group. For those clubs, the transfer could be completed for around £65 million plus add‑ons—significantly lower than Newcastle’s total package.

 

Romano notes the relationship between Sesko, his agent, and RB Leipzig remains “very good”, meaning the Sou could proceed smoothly—unlike other complicated sagas seen this window.

 

 

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💶 Financial Constraints & Strategy at Manchester United

 

United have already spent lavishly this summer, bringing in Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo for over £120m. At the same time, financial flexibility has been improved via several strategic moves:

 

Marcus Rashford’s loan to Barcelona freed up about £16 million in wages.

 

Sales and clauses on players like Anthony Elanga and Jadon Sancho have added further relief.

 

 

These moves give Manchester United some breathing space to explore a Sesko transfer without needing to immediately sell a current player. Still, further outgoings (from their so-called “bomb squad”) could make a deal more viable before window closure.

 

 

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⚽ Tactical Fit & Competition: Why Sesko Excites United

 

Rúben Amorim & Strengthening United’s Attack

 

While United’s manager prefers a proven Premier League striker, Sesko’s profile—as a tall, dynamic, and technically gifted forward—fits the mold: intelligent off-ball movement, aerial presence, and pace to stretch defenses. Amorim reportedly views him as serious competition for Rasmus Højlund and sees potential for both to develop together.

 

The club’s recruitment director, Christopher Vivell, is also a key figure: previously with RB Salzburg and Leipzig, Vivell knows Sesko well and holds strong relationships within the Red Bull network. That connection could be United’s unique leverage.

 

 

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⏳ Decision Timeline: Days Matter Now

 

Romano has stressed that Sesko is not rushing into a decision. The player is expected to take a few more days to meet with his family and advisers before choosing between United, Newcastle, or staying put.

 

The window’s final weeks are expected to bring pressure—particularly from Newcastle, who have prepared all aspects and appear ready to activate their bid should Sesko say ‘yes’. Meanwhile, United must act decisively to get traction on internal approval and financial assembly.

 

 

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🧭 Ramifications for United

 

If Manchester United succeed in securing Sesko, their attacking corps would gain a top-tier young footballer with elite upside. It adds depth and competition, particularly important given Højlund’s inconsistent output last season (4 league goals in 32 games). United fans will look for signs that Amorim can maximize both players.

 

Failing to land Sesko could push United toward alternative targets such as Ollie Watkins, though Villa remain reluctant to sell. Randal Kolo Muani has also been floated as a contingency signing.

 

 

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✅ Summary of Key Points

 

Aspect Manchester United Status

 

Financial Capability Improved via wage cuts and sales; still lower than Newcastle

Player Interest Sesko open to United even without European football

Strategic Advantage Direct contact with player and Leipzig; Vivell’s insider link

Release Clause Agreement Gentleman’s clause could let them sign below full bid price

Timeline Pressure Final days approaching; Sesko still undecided

Squad Impact Would boost competition and potential in United’s front line

 

 

 

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🗣 What Fabrizio Romano Is Saying

 

“The fight is ongoing” between Newcastle and Manchester United over Sesko. United are working on the deal financially and on the player side—while Newcastle appear ready to pay anything.

 

Newcastle remains early favourites financially, but Manchester United are still involved—thanks to direct communication with both Sesko’s camp and RB Leipzig.

 

The existence of the gentleman’s agreement offers United a credible route with a lower fee if Sesko sees the project as a “special club.”

 

 

 

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🏁 Final Verdict

 

Manchester United remain very much in the race for Benjamin Šeško, even after Newcastle’s bold £70 million bid. Fabrizio Romano’s latest reporting makes clear that while Newcastle may have financial superiority, United possess leverage through personal contacts, strategic negotiation, and the player’s openness to Old Trafford.

 

In these decisive days, whether United can “go big” and convince Sesko of their vision—or whether the Slovenian opts for Newcastle or stays at Leipzig—remains to be seen. But one thing is unquestionable: the next few days could define United’s attacking structure for years to come.