Benjamin Sesko has opened up about signing for Manchester United following a £74million from Bundesliga side RB Leipzig. The striker was heavily linked to the Red Devils' Premier League rivals Newcastle United, but opted to sign for Ruben Amorim's side instead.

It comes after a long and drawn-out search for a striker, with United having been linked to Viktor Gyokeres, Ollie Watkins and even Nicolas Jackson. In the end, United landed on Sesko, and after convincing him to choose Old Trafford over St. James' Park, have officially announced their latest summer signing.

During an interview with the official United website, Sesko explained: “The history of Manchester United is obviously very special but what really excites me is the future. When we discussed the project, it was clear that everything is in place for this team to continue to grow and compete for the biggest trophies again soon.

“From the moment that I arrived, I could feel the positive energy and family environment that the club has created. It is clearly the perfect place to reach my maximum level and fulfil all of my ambitions. I cannot wait to start learning from Ruben [Amorim] and connecting with my team-mates to achieve the success that we all know we are capable of together.”

United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, added: “Benjamin possesses a rare combination of electrifying pace and the ability to physically dominate defenders, making him one of the most exceptional young talents in world football. We have followed Benjamin’s career closely; all of our data analysis and research concluded that he has the required qualities and personality to thrive at Manchester United.

Sesko arrives at United as one of the most sought-after young talents in European football, having come through the Red Bull pathway. Last season Sesko netted 13 goals and assisted five times in 33 Bundesliga appearances for the German side.

Sesko has drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland for his electric play style, with the Slovenian international boasting a similarly tall 6ft 5in frame. United are said to have tracked Sesko since he was a teenager, with director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell, having originally signed him for Red Bull Salzburg earlier in his career.

Following the Sesko acquisition, United are expected to turn attention to bolstering their midfield department, with Brighton's Carlos Baleba having been mooted. Contact was made through intermediaries earlier this week, with the 21-year-old believed to be valued at over £100m by Brighton.