Manchester United have Red Bull Salzburg striker Benjamin Sesko ‘on the list’ this summer as they look to bolster their attack, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Erik ten Hag has been busy putting his mark on the squad at Old Trafford but with weeks remaining until the transfer window slams shut on September 1, there is plenty of time to strengthen further.
What is the latest on Sesko?
The 19-year-old has emerged as a coveted asset this summer with United joined by Chelsea in the chase for his signature.
According to i, Salzburg are looking for £45 million for Sesko this summer as Ten Hag looks to bolster his attacking options this summer, but they ultimately hope to hold onto their star man.
A source revealed in the report: “Salzburg need Sesko for the Champions League, they’re not encouraging a sale. But that’s a different thing from the player not being for sale, and they’d listen to offers.”
The 6ft 4in front man has started fewer than 30 starts for the Austrian champions and scored 11 goals in the 2021-22 season, but it has proved enough to tempt the Red Devils into negotiations.
However, Sky Sport Austria have reported that the striker has decided he would rather stay with his current side for the upcoming season.
But Romano insists that United have not given up on his services.
What has Romano said on the race for Sesko?
The journalist understands that Sesko remains on United’s list of targets for the final weeks of the summer transfer window.
The Italian also says that there has been contact with the player’s agent from those in charge at Old Trafford.
Romano told GIVEMESPORT: “He’s one of the targets, one of the names they have on the list. He's a player really appreciated by Manchester United, they had conversations with these agents.”
Why are United targeting Sesko?
Ten Hag currently has a distinct lack of attacking options at his disposal, particularly in that central striking position.
Cristiano Ronaldo filled that role last season but the Portuguese is currently pushing for a transfer to a Champions League club, leaving the new boss with a selection headache.
United’s attack was the subject of frequent criticism last term as Jadon Sancho, Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes all underwhelmed.
Only three new signings have been made this season in the form of Christian Eriksen, Tyrell Malacia and Lisandro Martinez and supporters will be eager to see more names through the door before the deadline.
Ajax striker Antony has also emerged as a target for United but with Ten Hag’s former club upping their asking price to £84 million, a deal now looks unlikely.