Benjamin Sesko swap deal mooted as Man Utd 'accept striker's price has dropped massively'

Manchester United's pursuit of striker Benjamin Sesko has sparked rumours of a potential swap deal involving Rasmus Hojlund. RB Leipzig's Sesko has risen to the top of Ruben Amorim's wish list this summer, surpassing Ollie Watkins.

The Red Devils have had their eye on Sesko for some time, even before his transfer to Red Bull Salzburg. Now, after making waves in the Bundesliga with Leipzig at just 22, it appears the club are keen to secure his services once more. Negotiations are reportedly in progress, with a figure around £70million being suggested for the Slovenian sensation. United previously splashed out on a No. 9 when they signed Danish star Hojlund from Atalanta in 2023, and now there are whispers that the 22-year-old could be part of a potential swap deal at a significantly reduced price.

According to The Athletic, Leipzig are among several parties interested in the underperforming Hojlund, and the possibility of a swap deal involving Sesko has been mooted, although it seems unlikely at present. Despite Hojlund costing the Red Devils £72m, they would need to add a cash sum on top of their player to secure Sesko in any potential swap deal.

The report suggests that United internally recognises that Hojlund's market value is far less than what they originally paid for him, currently estimated at just under £45m. This represents a drop of £27m in just two years since his high-profile move to Old Trafford.

Amidst rumours of Sesko becoming United's prime striking target, Hojlund has robustly insisted he isn't going anywhere despite speculation around his future. The young Dane has made it clear he intends to stay in Manchester and tackle any new competition head-on.

"I think the most important thing for me is just to keep working hard and stay focused and then obviously we'll see what happens," Hojlund asserted. "I think my plan is very clear and that is for me to stay and fight for my spot, whatever happens. I'm still very young. I think people forget that sometimes. I'm only 22.

"Obviously, not every striker is scoring 100 goals at the age of 22 (like Erling Haaland). But I've learned a lot, I think you can see in my game. I'm starting to develop and become even better in the basics.

"Now it's just about for me to sharpen myself and I've done very well in the pre-season so far. Just focusing on continuing that. Competition is fine with me. It sharpens me. I'm more than ready. I'm feeling sharp, so I'm welcoming everything that comes. I think it's good with competition and it only sharpens the team."

While United are said to be Sesko's preferred choice over Newcastle, securing his signature is not yet a formality. Leipzig are reportedly demanding around £65m, plus add-ons and a sell-on clause for the Slovenian sensation.

Amorim may need to offload some players before United can table a substantial offer. Hojlund is currently not on the market, and United could instead potentially generate funds for Sesko through the sales of Jadon Sancho, Antony and Alejandro Garnacho, all of whom are rumoured to be on the move for hefty fees.