Manchester United have finally settled on which striker to pursue between Benjamin Sesko and Ollie Watkins, David Ornstein of The Athletic has confirmed.
Having wrapped up deals for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Brentford respectively, United have now turned their attention towards securing the services of a top-class striker.
Heading into the window, Liam Delap was United’s first-choice target but he opted for a switch to Chelsea instead. The Red Devils were then linked to the likes of Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, but missed out on both talismans. Osimhen is on the brink of finalising a move to Galatasaray while Gyokeres’ has joined Arsenal.
A recent report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United had narrowed down their striker targets to just two names – Sesko and Watkins.
It was stated that United had held initial talks with the representatives of both players to assess the terms of a potential deal. Only after that would the club decide which target to pursue.
Unlike Watkins, who United seemingly have a clear path to sign, Sesko is attracting strong interest from Newcastle, making the race for his signature more competitive.
It’s believed that both players are open to sealing a switch to Old Trafford.
Earlier today, Fabrizio Romano revealed that United had held talks with RB Leipzig about Sesko, hinting that the club may have chosen him ahead of Watkins.
Now, the reliable Ornstein has confirmed this.
According to Ornstein, “Manchester United are prioritising a move for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko if they sign a striker this summer.”
“The Old Trafford club have made informal contact with their Bundesliga counterparts after Sesko emerged as their preferred option.”
“Newcastle United are also targeting the 22-year-old as their top candidate. That interest comes amid Alexander Isak wanting to leave St James’ Park and has accelerated the actions of Manchester United.”
Ornstein notes that Watkins has admirers at United but Aston Villa are adamant he will be sold. Ruben Amorim’s side have no desire to try and tempt Villa with offers for the 29-year-old.
It’s understood that Sesko has a gentleman’s agreement with Leipzig allowing him to leave for a fee in the region of €80m–€90m. This compromise was reached when he signed a new contract last year.
His current terms run until 2029.
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
