Man Utd have a back-up option for Sesko in mind. (REUTERS/Dylan Martinez)
Manchester United’s striker hunt looks to be reaching its final chapter — but it might not be quite the ending they planned for.
After spending the summer chasing a new No. 9, with Viktor Gyökeres joining Arsenal and Hugo Ekitike signing for Liverpool, United’s attention has turned fully to RB Leipzig star Benjamin Šeško. And by all accounts, they’re close.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Red Devils are back in direct talks with Leipzig over the structure of the deal, negotiating the fee and add-ons to push things over the line. Šeško, for his part, is said to have made his decision — he wants United. Personal terms are agreed, and he’s even training alone, reportedly awaiting the green light for a medical.
But there’s still one twist that could derail the deal: Newcastle United.
The Magpies, concerned about Liverpool’s growing interest in Alexander Isak, are keeping close tabs on Šeško themselves. If they decide to act fast — and outbid United both on transfer fee and wages — a switch to St. James’ Park can’t be ruled out.
Fortunately, United have a Plan B.
United Prepare Jackson Move as Sesko Alternative
According to a new report from The Athletic, Manchester United have identified Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson as a contingency option in the event they lose out on Šeško.
The Senegal international has scored 30 goals in two rollercoaster seasons at Stamford Bridge since joining from Villarreal. While Jackson has shown moments of brilliance, inconsistency has plagued his time in West London — and Chelsea’s new arrivals, including Liam Delap and João Pedro, could push him further down the pecking order.
The Blues aren’t actively pushing him out the door, but are reportedly open to his departure should the right offer arrive. Jackson, meanwhile, is also said to be receptive to the idea of a move where he can be the focal point — something unlikely to happen at Chelsea this season.
As for the price tag? That’s less clear. Reports have previously suggested a valuation of around £100 million, which would be a steep ask given Jackson’s patchy form. That said, United see his upside.
Still just 23, Jackson is electric in transition and a constant threat running in behind — qualities that would suit Rúben Amorim’s fast-breaking system perfectly. His movement and pace are elite, but his finishing and decision-making in the final third still need refinement.
There’s obvious raw talent — but whether he’s ready to lead the line at Old Trafford remains a risk United must weigh, especially with so much riding on this window.
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