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Not Gyokeres: Manchester United could yet trump Arsenal to prolific summer target

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated May 16, 2025 8:29 PM ET

Manchester United could yet pip Arsenal to Benjamin Sesko

Arsenal have failed to convince this season. Despite maintaining a high position in the table, the gap to champions Liverpool makes it clear that something is lacking in Mikel Arteta’s scheme. Part of the problem lies in the lack of a reliable centre-forward. Injuries to Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have further complicated the situation. Meanwhile, Manchester United are watching closely. The Red Devils have long been looking for a solution to their lack of goals, and names like Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko have been on their radar for months. If Arsenal stumble in their plans, it could open an unexpected door for United.

The Gunners are preparing to make a difficult decision. The Mirror reports that RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has been one of the most talked-about candidates. His age, stature and qualities make him attractive to Arteta. However, Viktor Gyokeres is also enticing; the Swede has had a brutal season in Portugal, scoring 52 goals in just 50 games. Sporting value him as a key player and do not intend to let him leave easily.

Benjamin Sesko might land at Manchester United if the deal to Arsenal collapses

On the other hand, the signing of Andrea Berta as sporting director has renewed the attention on Gyokeres. While that is happening, Arsenal are said to be well advanced with Sesko. Still, nothing is certain. Then there is the lingering interest from United, who last year thought they had Gyokeres on the books. The Sun even mentioned that Sesko was another priority for the Old Trafford club. With the summer approaching, the moves are set to accelerate. If Arsenal falter, other clubs will be waiting with open arms.

From a more practical point of view, it is hard to see Arsenal letting Sesko go. While they are still considering options, they have already done much of the work necessary to sign him. They have the money, the Champions League place and a squad that competes. Plus, Arteta is in desperate need of that kind of striker; Sesko has not had a brilliant season, but his potential still seduces.

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Gyokeres, on the other hand, seems more accomplished, but his price will be high. Sporting know they have a gem and will not sell him for less than he is worth. As for United, the situation is less clear. They are far from guaranteed Champions League football without winning the Europa League, their management has been unstable, and the pressure for immediate results is working against them.

If Arsenal’s plan fails because of some unexpected twist, United could try to get in again, but they would have to move fast. Still, it seems more of a hope than a real possibility. Arsenal has the upper hand; they have a solid sporting project and a clear plan. It would be rare for them to drop him at this stage. If Sesko doesn’t arrive, it will be because of a technical decision, not because someone else snatched him away. The likelihood of seeing the Slovenian striker in a United shirt in August is low. Smoke always moves in the summer, but not all rumours have substance.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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