Man United Have ‘Intensified’ Their Pursuit Of £166K p/w Striker Who They First Targeted 6 Years Ago

Manchester United are stepping up their efforts to sign RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, according to reports in Germany.

Absolut Fussball claim that the Red Devils have “intensified” their interest in the Slovenian international, who first came onto their radar at the age of 16.

Sesko has been linked with moves to Arsenal and Chelsea over the past twelve months, with the former having entered formal talks in June.

However, the Gunners have since pivoted to pursue Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, leaving the way clear for United to go after one of their long-term targets.

Why have other clubs opted against signing Sesko?

Considering the talent that the 22-year-old possesses, fans will rightly be asking why other teams are not battling the Red Devils for the player’s signature.

Absolut Fussball believe the reason is purely financial. Sesko reportedly has a release clause in his contract between €70m (60.6m) and €80m (£69.3m), but Leipzig want the fee paid up front.

In addition, the forward‘s wage demands are said to be sizeable. He is already earning €10m a year, which works out at roughly £166,000 a week, with his current team, so he will demand more than that from interested clubs.

Man United’s recruitment chief is a big fan

One of the main reasons why Sesko’s name has come back under consideration is due to Head of Scouting Christopher Vivell. He has signed the player twice before during his time at both Red Bull Salzburg and Leipzig.

Combined with the fact that United’s recruitment team have been tracking Sesko for over six years as well, it does seem like the stars have aligned.

Of course, paying £60m to £70m up front won’t be easy for the Red Devils. Sales of players such as Alejandro Garnacho, Antony and Jadon Sancho would be needed to make such an offer.

In other news, we list 4 things you didn’t know about Man United transfer target Senne Lammens