MANCHESTER, England (BN24) — Manchester United announced the signing of Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko from Germany’s RB Leipzig on Saturday, securing the 22-year-old on a contract running until 2030. The transfer fee reportedly stands at €76.5 million ($89 million), with an additional €8.5 million ($9.9 million) in potential bonuses.
Sesko, who moved to Leipzig from Austrian side RB Salzburg in 2023, scored 39 goals in 87 appearances across all competitions for the German club. The towering 1.95-meter forward has also made his mark on the international stage, netting 16 goals in 41 appearances for Slovenia.
“The history of Manchester United is obviously very special, but what really excites me is the future,” Sesko said upon completing the transfer. “When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon.”
Sesko praised the club’s environment and expressed eagerness to work under new manager Ruben Amorim. “From the moment that I arrived,I could feel the positive energy and family environment that the club has created. It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions,” he said.
The signing comes as Manchester United look to strengthen their attacking options after a disappointing 15th-place finish in last season’s Premier League. Current forwards Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee combined for only 18 goals last term, contributing to the club’s record 18 losses and lowest points total (42) in the Premier League era.
Jason Wilcox, Manchester United’s director of football, described Sesko as a rare talent with a blend of pace and physical dominance. “We have followed Benjamin’s career closely; all of our data analysis and research concluded that he has the required qualities and personality to thrive at Manchester United,” Wilcox said. “Working under the guidance of Ruben and our excellent performance team, Benjamin is joining the perfect environment to support him to reach his world-class potential.”
Sesko has drawn comparisons to former Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic, not only for his height but also for flashes of technical skill. He scored six goals in 28 Champions League appearances for Leipzig and Salzburg combined.
United’s new season begins at home against Arsenal on August 17. Alongside Sesko, the club has also secured forwards Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo to bolster their attack.
