Manchester United’s potential deal for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko initially looked difficult, but several smart financial decisions have made the deal increasingly possible.
United have increased their bid for the Slovenia international to £74.1 million, matching Newcastle United’s offer but with less money up front.
The Manchester outfit are now considered the favourites for his signature as Sesko prefers a move to Old Trafford. The striker has already agreed on personal terms.
According to The Telegraph, several strategic cost-saving measures will enable United to finance the transfer. Marcus Rashford’s loan move to Barcelona would save the club £12.75m in wages.
Chelsea’s failure to sign Jadon Sancho permanently has further boosted United’s coffers, and they have also raised nearly £21m from sell-on fees involving Anthony Elanga, Alvaro Carreras, and Maxi Oyedele.
Additionally, the reduced costs from significant job costs and the staggered payments for the signing of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo have enabled United to pursue a deal for the Leipzig striker.
United appear to be operating with a more disciplined, long-term financial strategy, allowing them to consider a move for Sesko alongside a new goalkeeper and a midfielder.
However, they must still sell to prevent breaching the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Alejandro Garnacho, Antony, Jadon Sancho, and Tyrell Malacia are expected to leave before the end of the transfer window, and United hope to recoup sizable fees from their departures.
Sesko’s potential arrival could now allow Rasmus Hojlund to leave, and United are ready to cut their losses by selling him for £30m.
While the signing of Sesko bodes well for the Mancunian giants, they must also offload players to pave the way for further signings this summer and in the future.