Slovenian striker Benjamin Šeško, 22, has chosen to join Liverpool, ending intense speculation about his future. Despite late attempts by Manchester United to hijack the deal and Newcastle’s strong interest in signing him as Alexander Isak’s replacement, Šeško has opted for Anfield.
This move, widely reported across media outlets, marks a significant win for Liverpool as they strengthen their attack under new manager Arne Slot.
Liverpool weren’t initially seen as frontrunners for the 6’4″ forward, who netted 13 Bundesliga goals in the 2024/25 season and 21 across all competitions. Manchester United, under Ruben Amorim, had prioritized Šeško as their primary striker target.
Informal talks were held, with director of recruitment Christopher Vivell using his past connections from Salzburg and Leipzig to push the move forward.
United’s pursuit intensified amid their shift to a 3-4-3 formation, especially after Marcus Rashford’s loan to Barcelona and the potential departures of Jadon Sancho, Alejandro Garnacho, and Antony.
However, Šeško was reportedly drawn to Liverpool’s Champions League status and Slot’s attacking style, leaving United scrambling for alternatives.
Newcastle also made a strong play for Šeško, identifying him as their ideal replacement for Isak, who is eyeing an exit—with Liverpool also monitoring the Swedish striker.
The Magpies tabled a substantial financial offer and presented an ambitious project, but Šeško’s camp, aware of a gentleman’s agreement with Leipzig allowing a transfer for €80–90 million (£69–78 million), favored Liverpool’s vision.
Speculation surged on social media—especially on X—when fans noticed Šeško had followed Liverpool’s Instagram account and pinned a post from Leipzig’s match against them, hinting at his leanings.
For Liverpool, Šeško’s arrival fills a vital gap up front. His blend of size, speed (a top speed of 35.69 km/h), and hold-up play fits seamlessly into Slot’s system, which emphasizes rapid transitions and aerial strength.
Unlike United’s inconsistent Rasmus Højlund or Newcastle’s reliance on Isak, Šeško offers a mix of promise and performance, with 39 goals in 87 matches for Leipzig.
The deal, reportedly worth around €80 million with add-ons, is seen as a major statement from Liverpool, who successfully outmaneuvered their rivals.
United’s failure to secure Šeško further highlights their struggles in attack, with Amorim now depending on Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, as well as newcomers Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha—none of whom are traditional center-forwards.
For Liverpool, Šeško’s commitment signals the beginning of a new phase. Fans are excited by his potential to make an impact similar to Erling Haaland’s.
With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Liverpool appear well-equipped for a Premier League title push, while United and Newcastle are left reassessing their attacking plans.
