For years, Benjamin Sesko has been one of the most talked-about young forwards in Europe. At just 22 years old, the Slovenian striker has already built a reputation as a powerful, clinical, and relentless goal-scorer—drawing comparisons to Erling Haaland and sparking interest from Europe’s biggest clubs.
Now, Manchester United are pushing hard to sign him, making the RB Leipzig frontman their number-one target in what could be a defining move of their summer rebuild. With Newcastle United also circling—contingent on Alexander Isak’s future—could this finally be the window when Sesko makes the leap to English football?
What Makes Sesko So Special?
Standing at 6ft 5in, Sesko combines raw physical power with elite-level pace—clocking in at 35.7km/h last season, one of the fastest among Bundesliga forwards. He’s dominant in the air, technically strong, and increasingly versatile. Last season, he began contributing beyond just goals, getting more involved in wider and deeper areas on the pitch.
In the last two seasons with Leipzig, he’s netted 39 goals in 87 appearances across all competitions, including six in the Champions League. In league play, he scored 27 goals in 64 matches—making him the highest scorer among all under-23 players across Europe’s top five leagues in that span.
A recruitment expert familiar with Sesko’s development told us: “He’s got the physicality, athleticism and mentality to thrive in the Premier League. He’s relentless, holds the ball up well, links play, and never stops working.”
More Than Just a Striker
While Sesko made his name as a goal poacher, his game is evolving. He’s showing maturity in decision-making, positional awareness, and link-up play. His finishing from distance is another weapon—nearly a quarter of his goals last season came from outside the box, more than any other Bundesliga striker with 12+ goals.
He’s also confident, bordering on bold. Back in 2022, Sesko reportedly told teammates he was “better than Haaland”—a cheeky comment, perhaps, but one that underscores his self-belief.
According to Central European football analyst Lukas Vrablik: “He’s one of the best strikers in Europe right now, but there’s still room for him to grow. He’s not the finished product—but he’s getting close.”
A Long Road from Slovenia to Stardom
Sesko’s journey began at Salzburg’s feeder club Liefering in Austria, where he scored 21 goals in the 2020-21 season. He then graduated to Red Bull Salzburg, tallying 29 goals in 79 appearances before making the switch to Leipzig in a pre-agreed move in 2023.
His international career is also off to a strong start—16 goals in 41 appearances for Slovenia, and a key figure at Euro 2024.
Slovenian journalist Miran Zore summed it up: “We all knew he had potential, but now we’re seeing it on the biggest stages. He’s fulfilling every promise his agent ever made.”
Where Will He Go?
Manchester United have held talks with Leipzig and seem committed to meeting the £70 million price tag. Newcastle’s interest hinges on whether they sell Isak, while Chelsea are monitoring the situation despite already spending big on other forwards.
Arsenal were previously in the race but opted to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting for £64 million earlier this summer.
Although Leipzig would like to keep him, the player reportedly has a gentleman’s agreement that allows him to leave if a top European club makes a serious offer. Still, Leipzig’s lack of European football and a summer rebuild under new manager Ole Werner could influence Sesko’s decision.
Final Word
There’s no denying that Benjamin Sesko is on the brink of something big. Whether it’s this summer or next, a Premier League move seems inevitable. The question is: who will pull the trigger first—and can they unlock the full potential of one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers?