Manchester United are awaiting to hear whether Benjamin Sesko will want to join them or Newcastle in the summer transfer window
RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko
RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko(Image: Maja Hitij/Getty Images)
Manchester United have made Benjamin Sesko their transfer priority this summer and it appears it is just themselves and Newcastle left in the race for his signature.
At the moment, it appears that Sesko is torn, with the Magpies holding the luxury of Champions League football while United can offer him the chance to play a crucial role in Ruben Amorim's rebuild. Indications at present suggest that Sesko may well favour the Reds.
However, there is still the matter of negotiating a fee with RB Leipzig which could throw up a hurdle for United considering that finances remain tight for Amorim and co. It is looking likely that United will need to spend around £70m for Sesko which shall only be affordable if player sales are agreed.
Therefore, there is a chance that United may not be able to sign Sesko even if the Slovenian decides that he wants to move to Old Trafford. If that scenario plays out, the Reds will need to look at alternatives.
It was suggested earlier in the summer that Jamie Vardy could be considered as a last resort option on a free transfer which would largely split opinions in the fanbase considering his age. Fortunately, there is another option who would likely be cheaper than Sesko but still provide a longer term solution than Vardy.
Ivan Toney
Ivan Toney(Image: PA)
Former Brentford forward Ivan Toney is currently plying his trade in Saudi Arabia with Al Ahli and has impressed, bagging 30 goals in all competitions last season. This form earned him a call-up to the England national team at the end of the campaign under Thomas Tuchel.
Toney has previously been linked with a move to Old Trafford. Erik ten Hag was credited by ESPN with interest only to decide that Joshua Zirkzee was a better fit for his system.
The 29-year-old returned to the United conversation this week as he commented: "Let's go my son," underneath Bryan Mbeumo's social media post marking his debut for the club. At Brentford, Toney formed a lethal partnership with Mbeumo and clearly the pair remain close.
If United have to pivot away from Sesko, Toney could be a safe option. He has played as a lone striker before, has excelled in the Premier League and already has an existing relationship with a key new addition to this squad.
United may not be able to pay him what Al Ahli are, considering their new wage structure. But, perhaps Toney could be open to a wage cut considering he could move back to the Premier League, be a key player and increase his chances of being on the plane to the World Cup next summer.
This is the sort of scenario Amorim will genuinely need to consider if a deal for Sesko cannot be completed.
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