Manchester United are intensifying their pursuit of RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, valued at £70 million, despite strong competition from Newcastle United. The Red Devils made their initial approach through intermediaries last week and are set to escalate talks after returning from their US tour.
Newcastle have submitted a bid just under £70 million for the 22-year-old Slovenian, having rejected Liverpool's £110 million offer for Alexander Isak. United anticipate a protracted negotiation with Leipzig, who are determined to hold firm on their valuation.
United have financial flexibility to sign a striker without selling, thanks to Marcus Rashford's season-long loan to Barcelona, which saved £12 million in wages, and £20.7 million raised from sell-on clauses including Anthony Elanga's move to Newcastle. Additionally, the club's failure to qualify for Europe means they are not bound by UEFA's 70% spending limit.
However, United remain constrained by Profit and Sustainability Rules, requiring sales before June 30 next year to comply. The structured payments for Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, costing a combined £133.5 million, along with cost-cutting measures, have provided greater spending freedom.
