Manchester United have firmly dismissed any possibility of selling Benjamin Sesko this summer, following reports from Spain that the striker was being considered by Barcelona as a replacement for Robert Lewandowski. The Catalan club are actively seeking a new forward after Lewandowski's departure from the Nou Camp following four seasons.
Barcelona's Striker Search
Spanish newspaper Marca reported that Sesko was among a shortlist of potential targets for Barcelona, who have been pushing to sign Julian Alvarez from Atletico Madrid but have yet to reach an agreement for the Argentine. Alongside Sesko, Borussia Dortmund's Serhou Guirassy was also named as an option. Additionally, there have been suggestions that Atletico Madrid could turn to Sesko if Alvarez leaves the club.
However, United sources have given those reports short shrift, emphasizing they have no intention of parting with the Slovenian after just one season at Old Trafford. Sesko joined United from RB Leipzig for £73 million last summer and, after a slow start, enjoyed an excellent second half of the campaign, finishing with 12 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions. That included 11 Premier League goals at a rate of one every 149 minutes.
Sesko's Role at United
The 23-year-old is seen as the club's long-term number nine, especially after Rasmus Hojlund completed a permanent move to Napoli for £38 million. United were delighted with Sesko's impact in his debut season, and he is expected to play a more prominent role under manager Michael Carrick next term.
Sesko featured in all but one of the 31 Premier League games he was available for last season, starting 17 times. Under Carrick, who replaced Ruben Amorim in January, he began only six of 17 matches but struck up a good rapport with the manager and first-team coach Travis Binnion. Seven of Sesko's 12 goals came after Carrick's appointment, with the striker spending time on individual training ground work to improve his game.
No Sale Intention
United's stance is clear: Sesko is not for sale, and the club views him as a key part of their future. Barcelona's interest, while flattering, will not change that position as United prepare for the upcoming season with Sesko at the forefront of their attacking plans.
