Manchester United finally completes the signing of £98million striker who has been on their radar for years

Manchester United and Arsenal are both seeking to bolster their attacking options this summer. While Arsenal are keen to find an upgrade for Kai Havertz, Manchester United are under pressure to improve on the underwhelming output of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, who scored just seven Premier League goals between them last season.

Initially, both Premier League sides had expressed interest in Sporting CP’s prolific striker Viktor Gyokeres. However, recent developments indicate that Arsenal have now turned their attention to Benjamin Sesko of RB Leipzig. According to Diario Sport, the Gunners are closing in on a deal for the Slovenian forward, with a reported fee of €75 million (£64.4 million) plus add-ons.

It had been suggested that Arsenal had reached a verbal agreement for Gyokeres, but those plans fell apart due to complicated negotiations led by Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas. While there were claims that Gyokeres could be available for €60 million, doubts about the accuracy of that figure remain. If the price were truly that low, Arsenal likely wouldn’t be spending more on Sesko, who is far less prolific.

With Arsenal stepping away from the Gyokeres pursuit, Manchester United now have a clearer route to secure the striker’s services. Portuguese outlet O Jogo reports that Sporting are demanding €80 million (£68.3 million) for the 26-year-old. Considering Gyokeres’ sensational record of 39 goals in 33 league matches last season — which helped secure the Primeira Liga title for Sporting — this fee may be justified.

Sesko, by contrast, registered 13 goals in 33 Bundesliga appearances. While talented, he doesn’t offer the same goal threat as Gyokeres, making United’s potential move for the Swede all the more appealing. Given the previous connection between Gyokeres and new United manager Ruben Amorim, a reunion at Old Trafford could be a perfect fit.

As things stand, United have a golden opportunity. With Arsenal shifting their focus and no immediate rival pushing hard for Gyokeres, the Red Devils could move quickly to secure a proven goal-scorer who fits their tactical vision. If they delay, however, other clubs like Chelsea or PSG could still enter the race.

Ultimately, with their current strikers struggling to deliver, and the market shifting in their favor, Manchester United must act swiftly if they want to land a forward capable of revitalizing their attack.