Manchester United are in the market for a striker to alleviate the burden on Rasmus Hojlund, the team’s current leading man. However, the question arises: is the striker on Manchester United’s radar too similar to Hojlund?
The Bargain of Benjamin Sesko
A release clause of £55 million for a 20-year-old forward who scored 18 goals in all competitions during the 2023/24 season appears to be a steal. This is especially true when you consider that he became the youngest Premier League player to score in six consecutive top-flight games, surpassing Hojlund’s achievements.
Benjamin Sesko ended the season on a high, netting in RB Leipzig’s 2-2 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt on the final day. This marked his seventh consecutive game scoring in the Bundesliga, showcasing his scoring prowess.
Manchester United’s Interest in Sesko
HITC reports that Manchester United, who previously showed interest in Sesko before his transfer from Red Bull Salzburg to RB Leipzig in 2022, remain keen on the Slovenian international. Fabrizio Romano confirms that despite receiving substantial financial proposals from the Saudi Pro League, Sesko is not interested in moving to the Middle East. This is encouraging news for his European suitors, including Manchester United.
“Benjamin Sesko has received two bids from Saudi Pro League clubs,” Romano writes on X. “Despite huge financial proposals, Sesko has absolutely NO plans to go to Saudi. Leipzig has offered him a new deal, and Premier League clubs are still interested.”
Sesko’s Stellar Season
Sesko’s performance this spring has been exceptional. However, HITC notes that Manchester United might prefer a more experienced forward, wary of relying on two young strikers with similar skill sets. This raises questions about the logic of signing another forward similar to Hojlund.
David Cartlidge, a European football expert, praised Sesko’s performance against Real Madrid in the Champions League last-16. “He was phenomenal,” Cartlidge said on the On the Continent podcast. “His movement, his running was outstanding. He’s got incredible ‘power running’, driving into different positions and pulling defenders apart.”
Similarities with Rasmus Hojlund
Cartlidge observed that Sesko’s role at Leipzig mirrors Hojlund’s at Manchester United. “There are many similarities between Sesko and Hojlund in terms of their movement, awareness around the penalty area, and how they link up with midfield. They both realize their role isn’t just about scoring but also about bringing the midfield into the game.”
Exploring Other Options
If Manchester United opts for a different type of striker, possibly a more experienced one, they might consider players like Serhou Guirassy or Ivan Toney. This strategy could provide a balance between youthful energy and seasoned experience, enhancing the team’s attacking options.
Conclusion: Manchester United’s Strategic Decision
As Manchester United continues to scout for a new striker, the decision to pursue Benjamin Sesko or a more seasoned forward will significantly impact their strategy. Sesko’s impressive record and refusal to be swayed by lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia make him a compelling option. However, the club must carefully consider the benefits of pairing two young, similar forwards versus introducing a more experienced presence into their attacking lineup.
Read also: How FA Cup final will decide European fate of Chelsea, Newcastle and Manchester United
Read also: Manchester United could offer £50m star as makeweight in Michael Olise deal