Amorim Wanted Premier League Experience Last Summer but Lost Out on Martínez and Ollie Watkins, Leading United to Prioritize Sesko
Last summer, Manchester United were actively seeking a striker with proven Premier League experience to bolster their attacking options. Rúben Amorim, known for his tactical acumen and eye for talent, reportedly wanted a forward who could adapt quickly to England’s top flight. United explored options like Emiliano Martínez and Ollie Watkins, both of whom carried Premier League pedigree, but both would have cost the club around £60 million. In the end, the club decided against pursuing either, opening the door for a younger, high-potential target.
That target was Benjamin Sesko, a 20-year-old striker who had impressed at RB Leipzig. United’s decision to pursue Sesko was heavily influenced by Kristian Vivell, who previously brought Sesko to Red Bull Salzburg in 2019. Vivell reportedly pushed for the club to prioritize Sesko over Watkins, citing the young forward’s long-term potential. Unlike Martínez or Watkins, who were established in top-flight football, Sesko represented a player with a high ceiling, capable of developing into a top-tier striker over the coming years.
Internally, United believed that Sesko had even been Mikel Arteta’s first choice at Arsenal before the Gunners moved for Gyokeres. This suggests that the striker was already on the radar of other Premier League clubs and was highly rated for his talent and potential. Despite interest from multiple sides, United moved decisively to secure his services, seeing him as a cornerstone for the future.
The club also considered Gyokeres, a 27-year-old striker, but were uncertain about his ability to improve further. Sources indicate that United were wary of signing players who may have already reached their peak.
“There are some No. 9s that big clubs have signed where you’re wondering how much they have left in the tank,” one insider explained. By contrast, Sesko was viewed as a dynamic, evolving talent, offering both immediate quality and the possibility of significant growth over the next decade.
Ultimately, Manchester United completed the signing of Sesko from RB Leipzig for £73.7 million, a figure higher than the earlier Watkins or Martínez options. While the price tag was substantial, the club judged it a worthwhile investment in a player they believe can develop into a world-class striker.
The decision reflects United’s strategy of combining long-term planning with high-potential signings, rather than simply acquiring established players at a lower cost.
In retrospect, the pursuit of Sesko over more experienced Premier League forwards signals a broader shift in United’s transfer approach.
By targeting younger players with proven youth-level credentials and high ceilings, the club aims to build a squad capable of sustained success, rather than relying solely on immediate impact. Sesko’s signing may therefore mark the beginning of a new era of smart, strategic recruitment at Old Trafford — one focused on potential, longevity, and high rewards for calculated risk-taking.
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