Benjamin Sesko is closing in on a move to Manchester United, despite the RB Leipzig striker snubbing the Red Devils last summer in favour of remaining in the Bundesliga
Gary Neville on punditry duties
Gary Neville previously admitted that Benjamin Sesko was right to snub Manchester United
(Image: James Gill - Danehouse, Getty Images)
Benjamin Sesko's choice to snub Manchester United's advances last summer in favour of remaining at RB Leipzig has been vindicated by Gary Neville.
The 22-year-old striker moved to the Bundesliga outfit in 2023 and immediately flourished, netting 18 goals across all competitions during his maiden campaign.
His outstanding displays attracted attention from the Premier League heavyweights alongside Arsenal during last summer's transfer window.
However, the Slovenian international chose to stay put in Germany and subsequently penned fresh terms. Whilst speculation suggested a gentleman's understanding between Sesko's representatives and the club would permit his departure this year for a reasonable sum, his contract now binds him to Leipzig until 2029.
After his inaugural Bundesliga season, Sesko - who is reportedly edging closer to a move to Old Trafford this month - featured at Euro 2024, with Neville providing commentary during Slovenia's 1-1 stalemate against Denmark.
The Manchester United icon analysed the striker's qualities and acknowledged that his choice to remain in Germany, which hadn't been confirmed at that point, proved optimal for his individual growth as a player, reports the Mirror.
"[He's got] goals, youth and physically," the former England and Manchester United defender said on ITV, adding: "I think we are moving back to having a big physical striker up front, the game seems to have flipped a little bit by having big defenders and big strikers.
"He is someone who has so much potential and you can see why Premier League clubs are interested. But I can also see why, what is being suggested, he is staying at Leipzig for another year. It will give him the chance to grow without the spotlight you get on you in the Premier League and just develop his game a little bit more."
Benjamin Sesko clapping the fans
Benjamin Sesko could be on the move to Manchester United this summer
United could have done with Sesko last season, considering the club's lacklustre performances in front of goal and his prolific output, with 21 goals and six assists for Leipzig across all competitions.
The additional experience Sesko gained from leading the attack for a top-tier European club and participating in the Champions League could also prove beneficial for United this season, should they secure the goal machine.
The towering 6'5 striker seemed set for a move to Newcastle United after the Magpies offered £72million plus £2.1m for his services. However, according to The Athletic, he shared his desire to join Ruben Amorim's side after their bid of £65m plus £8m was put forward.
Sesko's determination to sign for United has been communicated to all parties involved in the transaction. And as a result, Newcastle are now left lamenting yet another unsuccessful transfer as they seek to bolster their attacking options amidst uncertainty over Alexander Isak's future.