Manchester United are reportedly stepping up their interest in RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko, potentially moving ahead of Newcastle United in the race for his signature. The Red Devils have reportedly initiated talks with the German club for the highly sought-after forward.

Sesko is a key target for Manchester United, who are in dire need of a proven goalscorer to bolster their attacking options. Their pursuit of Sesko comes amidst uncertainty surrounding the future of several players and a clear need to improve their goal-scoring record. United's current options, including Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, have struggled to find the net consistently. Last season, the team only managed to score 44 league goals, finishing 14th in the Premier League.

Newcastle United are also very interested in Sesko, viewing him as a potential replacement for Alexander Isak, who has expressed his desire to leave the club amid links to Liverpool.

Arsenal were also previously interested in Sesko, but have since cooled their interest after acquiring Viktor Gyokeres.

Despite the competition from Newcastle, reports suggest that Sesko would prefer a move to Old Trafford. German journalist Guido Schäfer claims Sesko would rather sign for United than Newcastle.

However, a deal for Sesko will likely be expensive. RB Leipzig were previously hoping to receive between £68 million and £85 million for the striker, but the price is now considered to have dropped, with offers of around £60.6 million (€70 million) now deemed viable. Manchester United's ability to finance the move is uncertain, as they need to sell players to generate funds.

Adding to the complexity, Sesko had previously turned down Manchester United in 2023, emphasizing the importance of joining a club with a similar style of play to what he was accustomed to.

If Manchester United fail to acquire Sesko, they are reportedly considering other options, including PSG forward Randal Kolo Muani. United have already completed the signings of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo. They are looking to offload players such as Rasmus Hojlund, Anthony, and Jadon Sancho.