Manchester United’s summer-long pursuit of Benjamin Sesko came to a successful conclusion last week, ending months of speculation linking the striker with a move to the Premier League.
For much of the summer window, the Slovenia international had been the subject of strong interest from Newcastle United, whose recruitment team viewed him as a marquee attacking addition.
However, United made a decisive push in the final stages, convincing Sesko of their long-term project and securing his signature from RB Leipzig on Saturday.
It’s worth remembering that Newcastle withdrew from the race, further emphasising United’s pull despite the lack of Champions League football ahead.
The 21-year-old penned a contract until June 2030 and was unveiled to the Old Trafford faithful ahead of the Snapdragon Cup clash with Fiorentina.
Now, the club have confirmed via their website, that Sesko will wear the no.30 shirt for Manchester United.
He becomes the fourth senior arrival of the summer after Matheus Cunha (no.10), Diego Leon (now no.35) and Bryan Mbeumo (no.19).
All of whom were also presented to fans before the Fiorentina game.
Leon had previously worn the no.30 during pre-season, a number once carried by Wes Brown and John O’Shea.
For Sesko, the choice is a familiar one – he has worn the same number at both RB Leipzig and RB Salzburg, scoring 68 goals in 166 appearances combined.
He has also sported no.21 while on loan at FC Liefering and usually dons no.11 for Slovenia.
Speaking about his decision to join United, Sesko said: “I think, first of all, because of the club.
“It’s just a historical club that is unbelievable. For me, the team is great. It is getting better and better.
“I think it’s a great project, in general, and I can’t wait to start, definitely.”
