Benjamin Sesko is close to becoming Manchester United's third summer signing amid the Red Devils beating Newcastle United to the Slovenian striker's signature. While a deal with RB Leipzig has yet to be agreed, David Ornstein of The Athletic, reports that the club are "closing in on a deal".
The 22-year-old won't come cheaply and the only bid Leipzig have accepted thus far is from Newcastle at €82.5m + €2.5m. We have bid below this because the player has made clear his preference is an Old Trafford switch.
Sesko's arrival will have a knock-on effect on several players' futures not only at United. Alexander Isak was likely to join Liverpool if the Magpies could replace him with the Slovenia forward. But also one of Ruben Amorim's struggling stars seems to have realised he'll likely have to make way.
Rasmus Hojlund now biting the bullet over Man United exit
It's difficult to fault Rasmus Hojlund's desire to be a success at United, his dream club, but the Danish striker just isn't good enough. His four league goals last season was embarrassing and he's not lived up to the £72m the Reds paid Atalanta for him.
The 22-year-old didn't price himself at that astronomical fee, but he also hasn't even led the line as a striker worth half that price. He has continuously stated his intentions to remain at the Theatre of Dreams but Sesko's impending deal has now made him accept reality.
Samuel Luckhurst of Manchester Evening News reports that Hojlund is "resigned to being forced out by United" if Sesko completes a move. It's thought that the Dane concedes he'll need to move before the transfer deadline on September 1.
Nobody likes seeing a player fail, especially one who dreamed of donning the red shirt. But Hojlund's struggles have coincided with one of the worst periods in the club's history and unfortunately he will have little opportunity if big money is spent on Sesko.
Hojlund can revive his career elsewhere
Rasmus Hojlund (20) only joined Atalanta last summer but already involved G/A every 97 mins so far in 2023.
— Gilles 🇳🇬🏴 (@_Grimanditweets) February 18, 2023
Impressive physical, technical qualities, aggressive & good decision-maker.
Pay a small premium to get him, won’t expect to start just yet.pic.twitter.com/YvS9wwftl1
Scott McTominay has just been nominated for the Ballon d'Or after one season at Napoli. If Hojlund wants any evidence that there is chance to get your career back on track he just need look at the Scottish midfielder.
That's not to say McTominay was in as difficult a spell as Hojlund at United. But the Red Devils were prepared to sell because he wasn't viewed as a starter, which is exactly the scenario taking hold for the Denmark international.
Many United "flops" leave and re-find form elsewhere and Hojlund does have plenty of untapped potential. A return to Italy could be his best option given he's snubbing Leipzig who are keen.
Fabrizio Romano (via UtdXclusive) has suggested that AC Milan could be a possible destination. That seems perfect for the young frontman and United fans will no doubt wish him well should he head to the San Siro.