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Benjamin Sesko’s agent has lifted the lid on the transfer battle that saw Manchester United beat Newcastle United to one of the biggest deals of the summer.
The 22-year-old Slovenian striker joined United from RB Leipzig in a £73.7 million move, becoming a key part of Ruben Amorim’s £200 million attacking overhaul alongside Matheus Cunha from Wolves and Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.
Newcastle had submitted an offer just under £70 million, while Arsenal were also strongly linked before turning their focus to signing Viktor Gyokeres for £64 million. Sesko, however, had long set his sights on Old Trafford.
Speaking to Slovenian broadcaster POP! TV, agent Elvis Basanovic explained: “Benjamin’s wish, for years now, has always been United. He was even willing to take a pay cut to make it happen. As his agent, I wanted to make that wish come true.”
🗣️ Benjamin Šeško’s agent on why the Arsenal deal fell through: “Benjamin’s wish for years now has always been Manchester United – and he was even willing to take a pay cut to make the move happen. As his agent, I wanted to make that wish come true.” ❌pic.twitter.com/TYdzl9F1CO
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Basanovic revealed that United’s pursuit was intense in the final fortnight of negotiations, with talks spanning three countries and six cities, led by the club’s negotiations director, Matt Hargreaves.
The move had been years in the making. United first showed interest when Sesko was just 15, inviting him to visit their academy. According to Basanovic, a long-term plan was set: two years in the Bundesliga before making the leap to the Premier League.
While Newcastle offered more money to Leipzig, Sesko’s preference for United proved decisive. The forward scored 21 goals for Leipzig last season and has 39 goals and eight assists in 87 games since leaving Red Bull Salzburg.
Sesko could make his United debut in Sunday’s Premier League opener against Arsenal. His arrival has also sparked speculation over the future of Rasmus Hojlund, with Fulham reportedly monitoring the £72 million Danish striker.