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Man Utd Shock Move: Sesko Over Watkins as Top Striker Target
Jul 30 2025 16:38 · By onefootball.com · 8 Reads
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Manchester United are prioritising a move for RB Leipzig ace Benjamin Sesko ahead of Aston Villa talisman Ollie Watkins , according to The Athletic .
The Red Devils want a new striker to lead the line for their attack and have turned to the Slovenian. The Premier League giants will likely push to sign him in the coming weeks.
Man Utd chose a move for Sesko after deeming Aston Villa’s price for 29-year-old Watkins too expensive.
They are choosing the younger centre-forward, who they believe represents more value for money.
Sesko netted 21 goals last term for Leipzig (13 in the Bundesliga). He impressed sometimes with performances against heavy-hitters like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.
However, the consensus is that the 22-year-old is not the finished article.
He still has some way to go in development, but the Man United hierarchy is backing him to take those crucial steps at Old Trafford.
Newcastle United are also interested in his services after missing out on several top targets this summer.
To make matters worse, their star centre-forward, Alexander Isak, wants a move away from the Tyneside outfit.
Per the report, Sesko prefers a move to Manchester United , landing another blow to Newcastle.
With Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee already on the books, Manchester United lack a seasoned, ready-made centre-forward who can deliver consistently in the Premier League.
While Sesko is a high-ceiling talent, relying solely on young, developing strikers could be risky for a club chasing immediate success.
United need a lethal forward as they bid to bounce back from the goalscoring woes that plagued the club last season.
Despite his price tag, Watkins offered guaranteed goals, off-the-ball movement, and relentless work rate, qualities United badly need now, not in two years.
Experience matters in crunch moments, and Watkins has proven he can lead the line under pressure.
In prioritising potential over proven quality, United may leave themselves short again.