In a crushing blow to Erik ten Hag's summer rebuild plans, Manchester United have been issued a stern 'hands-off' warning over top striking target Benjamin Šeško.
RB Leipzig's sporting director, Rouven Schröder, has publicly slammed the door shut on any potential deal, delivering a definitive message that the prolific Slovenian hitman is going nowhere. "He will definitely stay", Schröder declared, leaving United to scramble for alternative options in the transfer market.
United's Striker Search Hits a Major Roadblock
The Red Devils had identified the 21-year-old as their primary candidate to solve their long-standing goal-scoring woes. With doubts surrounding the futures of Anthony Martial and the inconsistent form of Rasmus Højlund, securing a new number nine was paramount.
Šeško's explosive pace, physical presence, and impressive haul of 18 goals in his debut Bundesliga season made him the ideal candidate for Ten Hag's system. However, Leipzig's firm stance has now forced United's recruitment team back to the drawing board.
Why Leipzig Are Digging Their Heels In
Leipzig's resolve to keep their star man is underpinned by cold, hard business sense. Having only signed him from Red Bull Salzburg in 2023, the German club sees him as a colossal asset whose value is still skyrocketing.
With a contract running until 2028, they are under absolutely no financial pressure to sell. This position of strength allows them to effortlessly bat away any approaching interest, no matter how big the club.
This public statement from Schröder is a clear tactic to end all speculation before it can disrupt their pre-season preparations and the player's focus.
What's Next for Manchester United?
This setback is a significant one for the Old Trafford hierarchy. It highlights the immense difficulty they now face in attracting elite talent without the lure of Champions League football.
The search for a new centre-forward continues, with the club likely having to explore other, potentially more expensive, avenues. Names like Ivan Toney, Joshua Zirkzee, and Jonathan David may now come to the fore as United are forced to pivot swiftly in a competitive market.
For Šeško, the decision means another season of development at a club renowned for nurturing young talent, putting a potential blockbuster move to the Premier League on hold for at least another year.
