Man Utd Eyes Sesko Alternative as Striker Signals Eagerness to Make Old Trafford Move
Manchester United have received an opportunity to acquire Juventus forward Dusan Vlahović as a backup option to Benjamin Šeško, according to recent reports.
The Red Devils identified Šeško as their top striker priority toward the end of last month but now face competition from Newcastle United, who are also pursuing the Slovenian player and have tabled a bid valued at €80 million (£69.7 million, $92.6 million) initially, with an additional €10 million (£8.7 million, $11.6 million) in performance-related bonuses.
Following Newcastle's proposal, United have confirmed their readiness to submit a formal bid for Šeško should the 22-year-old indicate his desire to join, as he continues to be their top choice.
Nevertheless, reports suggest United are reluctant to match Newcastle's financial package, which could compel them to explore alternative options. Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins has also attracted significant interest at Old Trafford, and Fabrizio Romano has disclosed that United have been informed again about Vlahović's potential availability.
Sources indicate that over the weekend through Monday, United received multiple approaches regarding a potential transfer for Vlahović, who has netted 58 goals across 145 matches for Juventus following his £66.6 million ($88.5 million) transfer from Fiorentina in January 2022.
Vlahović is reportedly prepared to make the switch, but United have reaffirmed their commitment to securing Šeško, emphasizing their intention to continue pursuing a deal before exploring backup targets.
At Juventus, Vlahović is permitted to depart having entered his contract's final year, with his substantial salary considered a major concern for the Italian club.
"He is allowed to leave if an appropriate offer arrives, but currently, none has materialized," Juventus general manager Damien Comolli stated recently.
AC Milan are recognized as long-time admirers of Vlahović, who is reportedly available for merely €25 million (£21.8 million, $28.9 million).