Benjamin Sesko has finally revealed why he turned down Newcastle United and instead joined Manchester United in a huge £74 million transfer this summer.
The 22-year-old Slovenia striker became Manchester United’s latest big signing under new manager Ruben Amorim. He joined from German side RB Leipzig and signed a five-year deal at Old Trafford.
Manchester United agreed to pay £66.4 million upfront, with another £7.6 million in possible add-ons. This transfer takes United’s summer spending to a massive £207.5 million. They had already brought in Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford for £71 million.
Sesko had a choice between Newcastle and Manchester United after both clubs negotiated with RB Leipzig. Newcastle could offer him Champions League football next season. Manchester United could not — they finished 15th in the Premier League last season and will not play in Europe in 2025/26.
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Still, Sesko’s heart was set on Manchester.
Speaking about his decision, Sesko said:
“The history of Manchester United is obviously very special, but what really excites me is the future. 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.”
He added that from the moment he arrived, he felt a “positive energy” and “family environment” at United.
“It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions. I cannot wait to start learning from Ruben and connecting with my teammates to achieve the success we all know we are capable of together.”
Sesko was one of the most wanted young strikers in Europe after scoring 21 goals in 45 games for Leipzig last season.
Manchester United badly need goals. Last season, they scored just 44 in 38 league matches. Strikers Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee failed to make a big impact, which is why Sesko will be the main centre-forward in Amorim’s new-look attack.
For Newcastle, this is another big transfer miss. Earlier in the summer, they lost Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool. Now, they have also lost the race for Sesko.
They have managed to sign Anthony Elanga, but there are more problems. Star striker Alexander Isak has told the club he wants to leave, leaving Eddie Howe with a big headache ahead of the new season.
Sesko was also once linked with Arsenal, but the Gunners chose to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting Lisbon instead. That decision left Sesko with only two serious Premier League options: Newcastle or Manchester United.
By choosing United, Sesko has made it clear that he values the club’s long-term project and atmosphere over immediate European football.
Many fans see this as a sign of his belief in Ruben Amorim’s vision for the team. United supporters are already excited about what Sesko can bring — speed, power, and a killer instinct in front of goal.
The signing is also a statement from Manchester United’s owners. Despite a poor league season, they are willing to spend big to rebuild the squad.
Sesko’s arrival is expected to bring fresh energy and competition in attack. He is young, ambitious, and eager to prove himself in the Premier League.
Now, all eyes will be on whether he can deliver goals and help United climb back towards the top of English football.
For Newcastle, the search for a top striker goes on. For Manchester United, the Sesko era is about to begin.
