Manchester United's Sesko Gamble: Can He Fix Their Striker Crisis?

RB Leipzig set to join Manchester United

Discover how Benjamin Sesko could be the solution to Manchester United's striker woes, and what it might take for him to succeed under Ruben Amorim.

Compared to Hojlund's best shot accuracy (63.6%) and conversion rate (26.3%), Sesko's numbers (75% and 50%) are significantly better...

Manchester United's potential move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko would be a significant boost for manager Ruben Amorim. With no European football in the 2025/26 season, Sesko's signing would be crucial for the team's domestic success. To maximize Sesko's potential, United need to ensure a smooth transition and integrate him effectively into their playing style.

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe likely faces frustration with yet another transfer target slipping away, while Manchester United's potential signing of Benjamin Sesko would give them a significant boost ahead of the new season. Ruben Amorim's squad faces multiple challenges, but a key issue has been the lack of a high-quality center-forward, a role Sesko could fill effectively.

Rasmus Hojlund Underwhelms at Manchester United

Rasmus Hojlund, signed by Erik ten Hag from Atalanta, has failed to impress during his two seasons at Manchester United.

At just 22, Rasmus Hojlund's struggles suggest he was pushed into the Premier League too soon. Having played in Serie A, he initially showed promise, but his confidence has since waned. Despite his physical presence, Hojlund's lack of pace in key moments has often let him down.

Hojlund can't be faulted for his work rate, as he's clearly given his all, but despite his efforts, he's struggled to deliver in front of goal.

The £72m investment in Rasmus Hojlund hasn't paid off, with just 14 Premier League goals in 62 matches. This underwhelming return might explain why Manchester United is willing to sell him at a £42m loss after just two years.

Benjamin Sesko: A Clinical Finisher for Manchester United?

Sesko's potential £74m price tag exceeds Hojlund's, but his impressive goal record – 27 Bundesliga goals in 64 matches over two seasons – could justify the investment. Under Ruben Amorim, Sesko would ideally receive similar service to what Viktor Gyokeres enjoyed at Sporting.

Sesko's impressive shooting accuracy (75%) and conversion rate (50%) make him a clinical finisher. To maximize his potential, Manchester United's supporting cast would need to play to his strengths.

Compared to Hojlund's best shot accuracy (63.6%) and conversion rate (26.3%), Sesko's numbers (75% and 50%) are significantly better. However, a note of caution is that Sesko is at a similar career stage as Hojlund, and his stats might be inflated due to playing in a less competitive league, as evidenced by Hojlund's drop to 12.5% conversion rate last season in the Premier League.

Getting the Most Out of Sesko

To maximize Sesko's potential, Manchester United's supporting cast must play their part. Sesko excels in the air, but Amorim's style often features balls in behind. United might need to adapt their play to suit Sesko's strengths for an immediate goals return, as another striking gamble could be costly.

Benjamin Sesko Radar Chart - Bundesliga 2024/25 Opta by Stats Perform

Sesko dominates aerially, winning 119 of 213 duels over two seasons, compared to Hojlund's 58 wins in 222 duels. Meanwhile, Hojlund edges Sesko in chances created (45 to 37), though a striker's primary role is to finish chances, not create them. Ultimately, a good striker is judged on goals, not assists.

Rasmus Hojlund Radar Chart - Premier League 2024/25 Opta by Stats Perform

Sesko's pass completion has improved, rising from 39.1% to 66.3%, but still lags behind Hojlund's 76.3%. Even Viktor Gyokeres, under Amorim, boasted a higher pass completion rate of 79.2%. Sesko's passing ability might need development to fit Amorim's system.

Clearing Out the Dead Weight

A pressing concern for Ruben Amorim is offloading unwanted players. Despite reported interest in players like Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, no confirmed bids have been made, and Tyrell Malacia also remains without a buyer.

Sesko's pass completion rate has jumped from 39.1% to 66.3%, yet still falls short of Hojlund's 76.3% and Viktor Gyokeres' 79.2% under Amorim. To fit seamlessly into Amorim's setup, Sesko may need to refine his passing skills.